Delhi High Court Mandates Enhanced Security for Pappu Yadav
The Delhi High Court has instructed the Central government to augment the security detail of Bihar’s independent Member of Parliament (MP) Pappu Yadav. This decision comes after Justice Manoj Jain emphasized the importance of addressing Yadav’s security concerns. The court directed that an additional personal security officer (PSO) be assigned to Yadav until the government evaluates his request for increased protection.
During the hearing, Justice Jain underscored the gravity of the threats faced by Yadav, stating, “There is something significant. He is the sitting MP. You boost his security… Despite having some adequate measures, some incident has taken place. Don’t say it [the attack] is made up.” These comments highlight the court’s recognition of the potential danger to the MP’s life.
Yadav’s Plea for Comprehensive Security Assessment
Pappu Yadav filed a petition seeking a new and thorough assessment of threats against him, alongside interim security measures nationwide. Despite holding a ‘Y+’ security status in Bihar, Yadav argued that the threats he faces necessitate enhanced protection. The plea highlighted a specific threat from August 1, wherein a public declaration offered ₹51 lakh for his beheading. Additionally, a mob gathered outside the residence of his wife, who is also an MP, threatening his life.
The petition detailed an incident on August 2, when Yadav submitted a complaint to the Delhi Police, accompanied by electronic evidence of threats. On the same day, during a press conference at his Delhi residence, a shoe was hurled at him, and there was an attempt to assault him with a knife.
Court Proceedings and Government’s Response
Senior Advocate Shadan Farasat, representing Yadav, stressed the urgency of the situation to the court, noting the repeated attacks and public threats against Yadav since his controversial skit concerning the Ram Mandir donations. Farasat advocated for an immediate response from the government to Yadav’s plea for enhanced security.
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Appearing for the government, Central Government Standing Counsel (CGSC) Ashish Dixit informed the court that measures have been initiated, and the government is deliberating on Yadav’s request for increased security. Dixit requested three weeks to conclude the review of Yadav’s threat perception before deciding on further security enhancements.
The Bench instructed the government to expedite its review and provide instructions on Yadav’s security enhancement. Following these discussions, the court issued an interim order and resolved the plea filed through advocates Kanishk Arora, Shakshi Goyal, and Ishtpreet Singh.
