Gopalganj/Patna: A civil court in Bihar has granted interim relief to JD(U) MLA Amarendra Kumar Pandey, also known as Pappu Pandey, and his chartered accountant Rahul Tiwari by staying their arrest in connection with a land dispute case.
The order was passed by the Additional District Judge-3 court during a hearing, restraining police from taking coercive action against the accused until the next hearing on May 7.
Defence Calls It Civil Dispute
Appearing for the defence, senior advocates including Manan Kumar Mishra and Naresh Dixit argued that the case was civil in nature and did not warrant criminal proceedings.
They told the court that the dispute was being given a criminal dimension without sufficient grounds, citing documentary evidence to support their claim.
Court Grants Interim Relief
After hearing arguments from both sides, the court ordered a temporary stay on the arrest of the accused, providing them time to prepare their legal defence.
The ruling offers a significant reprieve to the MLA, who represents the Kuchaykot assembly constituency.
Allegations And Investigation
Pandey has been accused of links with alleged land mafia activities, with police earlier obtaining arrest warrants based on findings from their investigation.
The case also names others, including another MLA, in connection with alleged illegal land dealings.
Next Hearing On May 7
The court has scheduled the next hearing for May 7, when the prosecution is expected to present its arguments on whether the matter involves criminal liability.
Legal observers said the outcome could determine the direction of the case, particularly on whether it remains a civil dispute or proceeds under criminal law.
