The arrest of independent Member of Parliament from Purnia, Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav, has intensified political tensions in Bihar. Patna Police arrested him late on Friday night from his residence in connection with a 1995 case. While the police maintain that the action was carried out under a court order, his family members and supporters have described the arrest as an act of political vendetta.

According to police sources, Pappu Yadav had repeatedly failed to appear before the court in the concerned case, following which a warrant for his arrest was issued. The police claim that the arrest was made strictly on the basis of this warrant.

Following the arrest, a statement from the MP’s mother, Shanti Priya, came to the fore. She accused the administration of misconduct and harassment, alleging that her son was surrounded and arrested without any prior notice.

Shanti Priya stated that Pappu Yadav had returned from Delhi with the intention of surrendering before the court, but was not even given the opportunity to eat or drink. She alleged that the police pushed him and forcibly took him away, questioning why such treatment was meted out to an elected Member of Parliament.

She further claimed that the action was politically motivated, asserting that her son had recently raised his voice over the murder of a NEET aspirant, and that this was the reason behind the action against him. She described the arrest as political persecution rather than a routine judicial process.

Shanti Priya also pointed out that Pappu Yadav is already suffering from high blood pressure, diabetes, and problems related to his legs, and warned that such an action could adversely affect his health.

After the arrest, Pappu Yadav’s health reportedly deteriorated, following which he was admitted to Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH). After medical examination, he was sent to judicial custody. Tight security arrangements were put in place on the hospital premises.

As news of the arrest spread, supporters staged protests in Purnia and adjoining areas. Reports emerged of road blockades and tyre-burning demonstrations at several locations. Protesters raised slogans against the administration and termed the arrest unjustified.

The incident has also triggered sharp political reactions. Supporters and several opposition leaders have termed the arrest an act of political vendetta, while the administration has maintained that the law is equal for all and that the action was taken strictly in accordance with legal procedures.

Political analysts believe that Pappu Yadav’s arrest could have significant implications for Bihar’s political landscape, and that the issue is likely to escalate further in the coming days.