Patna: Purnia MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, was arrested by Patna Police around midnight on Friday after a special court ordered action in a 35-year-old criminal case. The arrest followed a prolonged police operation at his residence in Mandiri, triggered by his alleged failure to appear before the court despite repeated summons.
According to police officials, a special court in Patna took a stringent view of the matter and directed the arrest of three accused, including the MP. Acting on the order, a Patna Police team reached Pappu Yadav’s residence late on Friday evening. The operation continued for nearly three hours, after which around 50 police personnel arrived at the spot. Medical assistance was also arranged before he was formally taken into custody.
During the arrest, several of Pappu Yadav’s supporters attempted to board the police vehicle, creating brief commotion in the area.
Patna SP (City) Bhanu Pratap Singh said the case dates back to 1995 and was registered at Gardanibagh police station under sections 419, 420, 468, 448, 506 and 120B of the Indian Penal Code. “This is a pre-BNS case. The trial was underway and the MP was required to appear in court, but he failed to do so on the scheduled dates. Following this, the court ordered his arrest,” Singh said.
The case stems from a complaint filed by one Vinod Bihari Lal, who alleged that Pappu Yadav and his associates had fraudulently taken his house on rent. The complainant claimed that the purpose of running the MP’s office from the premises was concealed at the time of renting.
The matter has remained pending for nearly three and a half decades. Sources said the court took note of Pappu Yadav’s repeated absence and ordered action against all named accused.
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for February 7. It remains to be seen whether the MP will seek legal relief or surrender before the court in the coming days.
