New Twist in Alleged Theft Case at Tej Pratap Yadav's Official Residence: Witness Driver's Family Alleges Threats, Seeks Police Protection
Patna: The alleged theft case at the official residence of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader and former minister Tej Pratap Yadav has taken a fresh turn. The family of Anil Kumar, Tej Pratap Yadav's driver and a key witness in the case, has alleged that they are being threatened to prevent him from testifying. The family claims they were warned that if Anil Kumar gives a statement before the police or in court, they could face serious consequences. A written complaint has been filed at Gardanibagh Police Station, and the family has requested police protection.
With these allegations, the case has expanded beyond the reported theft itself and now includes claims of witness intimidation. Police have initiated an investigation into the complaint.
Witness's Family Files Complaint
According to the complaint, Ranju Devi, wife of Anil Kumar, approached Gardanibagh Police Station and reported the incident in writing.
She stated that on the night of the alleged incident, her husband had gone to Tej Pratap Yadav's residence for work, while she was alone at home.
She alleged that a few people whom she already knew arrived at her house. Believing they were familiar visitors, she invited them inside. However, during the conversation, she claimed they began pressuring her regarding the ongoing case.
Alleged Pressure Not to Testify
According to the complaint, the visitors allegedly tried to persuade Anil Kumar, through his wife, not to testify in the alleged theft case.
Ranju Devi claimed they warned that if Anil Kumar gave evidence before the police or the court, the family would have to face serious consequences.
She further alleged that the visitors threatened to have the entire family "picked up" through a person named Akash if Anil Kumar testified. Based on these allegations, the family has requested immediate police protection.
Family Expresses Safety Concerns
Anil Kumar and his family say they are deeply concerned about their safety.
They have urged the police to provide protection so that Anil Kumar can cooperate with the investigation and any future legal proceedings without fear or intimidation.
The family also requested a fair and impartial investigation into the alleged threats.
Police Begin Investigation
Following the complaint, Gardanibagh Police have started investigating the matter.
Police officials said all allegations mentioned in the complaint will be examined and appropriate action will be taken based on the available evidence.
Investigators are also trying to verify whether the individuals named in the complaint were present at the family's residence and whether the alleged threats were actually made.
Complaint Also Filed by Accused's Family
Meanwhile, another development has emerged in the case.
The wife of Motilal Rai, a former personal assistant to Tej Pratap Yadav and one of the accused in the alleged theft case, has also approached the police seeking protection for her husband.
She has claimed that her husband's safety is also at risk and has requested appropriate security measures to ensure a fair investigation.
With both sides expressing concerns about their safety, the case has become more complex.
Questions Raised Over Witness Protection
The latest allegations have also brought attention to the issue of witness protection.
Legal experts note that witnesses must be able to provide evidence freely and without fear for the justice system to function effectively.
If allegations of intimidation or attempts to influence a witness are found to be true, those responsible could face legal action under the applicable laws.
Political Attention on the Case
Because the case involves the official residence of a prominent political leader, it has attracted considerable political attention.
So far, Tej Pratap Yadav has not issued any official statement regarding the latest allegations.
Political observers believe the investigation must be conducted impartially and transparently to maintain public confidence and ensure that all facts are established fairly.
Police Say Investigation Will Be Evidence-Based
Police officials have emphasized that it is too early to draw any conclusions.
They said statements from all concerned parties will be recorded, available evidence will be examined, and further questioning will be conducted if necessary.
Only after completing the investigation will it be possible to determine whether the allegations of witness intimidation are supported by evidence.
Investigation Continues
At present, attention remains focused on the police investigation.
While the witness's family has sought protection and alleged intimidation, the accused's family has also expressed concerns about their safety.
The final outcome will depend on the evidence collected, witness statements, and the findings of the investigation. If the allegations of threats are substantiated, legal action will be taken against those responsible. If the claims are found to be unsubstantiated, the investigation report is expected to clarify the circumstances surrounding the case. For now, the investigation remains ongoing, and police say all aspects of the matter are being examined thoroughly.