Purnea MP Pappu Yadav Arrested in Decades-Old Case, Raises Safety Alarms
In a dramatic turn of events, Purnea MP Pappu Yadav was arrested by Patna Police in connection with a case dating back to 1995. The arrest unfolded at his residence in Patna, where police arrived to take him into custody, sparking high tension and public scrutiny.
Yadav's Distress and Safety Concerns
Speaking to reporters during the arrest, Pappu Yadav voiced significant distress over his well-being and safety. "I am not well... I don't know what will happen with me," he stated, highlighting his uncertain future. He expressed fears that the police might harm him, insisting that he preferred to be taken directly to court rather than a police station.
Yadav noted that the court had summoned him the following day and suggested that house arrest could have been a viable alternative. He also raised questions about the police's attire, mentioning they arrived in civil clothes, which initially led him to believe they had come to kill him. "Police reached here in civil uniform like criminals. I thought they had come to kill me," he remarked, adding, "Is this a criminal's house?"
Questioning the Timing of the Arrest
The Independent MP further questioned the necessity of his arrest at this stage, pointing out that the case was registered nearly 35 years ago. "There was a case registered around 35 years ago, and the police came to arrest me in connection with that case," he said, casting doubt on the motives behind the sudden enforcement action.
Following the arrest, due to health concerns, Pappu Yadav was admitted to IGIMS hospital for medical attention, underscoring the physical toll of the incident.
Police Explanation and Legal Details
Patna SP City Bhanu Pratap Singh provided clarity on the legal basis for the arrest. He explained that the case was registered under the old Indian Penal Code, which has since been replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The charges involve Sections 419, 420, 468, 448, 506, and 120B, linked to the Gardanibagh police station.
"This is a 1995 case which was under the old IPC, now replaced by the BNS, involving sections 419, 420, 468, 448, 506, and 120B. The arrest is being made under these sections," Singh stated. He added that the trial was ongoing in court, and the MP failed to appear on the scheduled date, leading to the arrest.
Singh assured that Pappu Yadav has been provided with medical supplies and that his caretaker is accompanying him. The MP is undergoing a medical examination before being produced at the police station, ensuring procedural compliance.
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
This arrest has stirred public debate, with many questioning the timing and handling of such an old case. The use of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita adds a modern legal twist, highlighting ongoing reforms in India's judicial system. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this will impact Pappu Yadav's political career and the broader legal landscape.
The incident underscores the complexities of law enforcement in high-profile cases, balancing legal obligations with concerns for individual rights and safety. With health issues now in play, the focus shifts to ensuring a fair and transparent process moving forward.
