Patna: In a dramatic late-night operation, Patna Police arrested Purnia’s Independent MP Pappu Yadav in a 31-year-old case around midnight on February 6. He was produced before a court on February 7, which remanded him to two days of judicial custody and sent him to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).
The arrest comes amid heightened political tension, as Yadav has been sharply critical of the police over the NEET student rape-murder case, accusing investigators of lapses and demanding swift action. His detention triggered heated exchanges between police and his supporters.
Why now? Police cite old warrant and court orders
According to police sources, Yadav’s arrest is linked to a 1995 case in which he had repeatedly failed to appear in court. His bail had been cancelled earlier, and the court had issued attachment orders. After tracing the file, officers waited for his return from Delhi’s Budget Session before moving to execute the warrant.
Sources say senior officers discussed the action internally and decided to proceed strictly on the basis of court orders. The police maintain the arrest is procedural, not political, and aimed at enforcing long-pending judicial directions.
Backdrop: Pressure over NEET student case and past frictions
Yadav’s detention follows weeks of public criticism of the police over the NEET student rape-murder investigation. Police officials, however, argue that his campaign added pressure on the SIT probing the case and complicated the inquiry.
There is also a history of friction between Yadav and Patna SSP Kartikeya Sharma. As Purnia SP in late 2024, Sharma had investigated death threats that Yadav claimed were from the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The probe found the threats originated from a former associate of Yadav, not an external gang, leading to arrests and a press briefing that derailed Yadav’s push for higher-category security. Police sources say the episode deepened tensions between the two sides.
Government kept out of the loop
Notably, police say the operation was handled entirely at the departmental level. No prior intimation was given to ministers or senior political leaders, even though the matter involved a sitting MP. Officers describe the move as enforcement of court orders, while acknowledging internal displeasure within the department over Yadav’s recent statements.
What’s next
Yadav’s lawyers are expected to move for bail. Police sources also indicate they may revisit other pending cases if required by law. Meanwhile, political reactions are building in Bihar, with allies calling the arrest vendetta and opponents insisting it is due process.
