Bihar’s political landscape has been stirred once again with the arrest of independent MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, in a 31-year-old 1995 forgery case. The arrest took place on the midnight of February 6 at his residence in Mandiri. According to police, the action was carried out under court orders and following due legal process. The arrest has triggered strong political and social reactions.

Mohammad Shafi, National Acting President of the Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), condemned the arrest, calling it “politically motivated and vindictive.” Shafi said that the real intention behind the arrest is to silence voices raising concerns about systemic failures and women’s safety. He demanded immediate release, an independent inquiry into the arrest, and a stop to political vendetta.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described the arrest as “political revenge”, asserting that it is aimed at muzzling outspoken leaders like Pappu Yadav. In a tweet, he wrote, “When demands for justice are raised, old cases are suddenly revived. Pappu Yadav’s arrest is an attempt to silence questions about the suspicious death of a NEET student and safety concerns.”

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also strongly criticized the move, stating that it is being carried out to protect the ruling establishment and intimidate those seeking justice.

Recently, Pappu Yadav had raised questions about the suspicious death of a NEET student and security lapses in Patna hostels. His supporters argue that the timing of his arrest confirms it as an act of political retaliation.

While the police maintain that the arrest was conducted according to legal procedure and court directives, opposition parties and SDPI are calling it an example of political pressure and vendetta.

The arrest has escalated political tension in Bihar, drawing strong criticism from SDPI, Rahul Gandhi, and Priyanka Gandhi, all of whom describe it as a violation of democratic rights. The upcoming court hearings and continuing political reactions will be closely watched across the state.