The MP-MLA court in Patna has stayed the arrest of JD(U) MLA Anant Singh until May 30 in connection with a controversial viral video case from Gopalganj. The court was hearing his anticipatory bail plea and has scheduled the next hearing for Saturday before District and Sessions Judge III-cum-Special Judge of MP-MLA Court, Rajendra Kumar Pandey.
Background of the Case
The case stems from a viral video recorded during an Upanayana ceremony held in Semraon village under Mirganj police station in Gopalganj district. The footage allegedly shows an open display of weapons and an obscene dance performance in the presence of the MLA. Following the incident, an FIR was lodged against nine individuals, including Anant and Bhojpuri artist Gunjan Singh.
Defense Arguments
Appearing for the MLA, advocates Kumar Harshvardhan and Rajesh Kumar Pathak argued that the case was politically motivated. They claimed that the video had either been edited or generated using Artificial Intelligence (AI). “The video in question appears to have been generated using AI, and Anant is not seen holding any weapon in the footage. Taking these points into consideration, the court granted him relief and stayed the arrest,” Pathak said after the hearing.
Legal Proceedings
The court’s interim relief provides temporary protection to the MLA, who faces allegations of promoting violence and indecency at a religious ceremony. The next hearing is expected to address the merits of the anticipatory bail application. The prosecution is likely to counter the defense’s claims of AI manipulation and argue that the video is authentic.
Reactions and Implications
The case has drawn significant political attention in Bihar, with opposition parties criticizing the MLA’s conduct. Meanwhile, supporters of Anant Singh maintain his innocence and claim he is being targeted by rivals. The court’s decision to stay the arrest until May 30 gives the MLA temporary reprieve, but the final outcome will depend on further evidence and legal arguments.
