Second MLA Arrested in 48 Hours: Punjab Police Nab Fugitive Pathanmājra

In a significant development in Punjab’s political landscape, absconding MLA Harmit Singh Pathanmājra has been arrested by the Patiala Police after evading authorities for nearly six months. Pathanmājra, who had been declared a proclaimed offender by a court, faces serious charges including rape, fraud, and criminal intimidation. According to official information, the MLA had been on the run since September 2 last year, and a look-out notice had also been issued against him. A spokesperson of the Punjab government stated that all attempts to evade the law have now failed, and the accused will soon be produced before a court for further legal proceedings. The arrest is being viewed as a major success for the Punjab Police, especially as it marks the second MLA taken into custody within the past 48 hours. Earlier, former jail minister Laljit Singh Bhullar was arrested on Monday in connection with a case of abetment to suicide. These back-to-back arrests have intensified political activity across the state. Police officials stated that the action reflects a firm commitment to ensuring justice for victims and sends a clear message that no individual is above the law, regardless of their position. Sources revealed that the Patiala Police carried out a highly coordinated and confidential operation to apprehend Pathanmājra from near Patiala. Due to the look-out notice, he had reportedly re-entered India via Nepal. It has also been indicated that he offered to surrender. Senior Superintendent of Police Varun Sharma said that a well-planned operation conducted over the past 48 hours under the leadership of SP Vaibhav Chaudhary led to the arrest. He added that six police teams had been conducting raids across seven states in search of the accused, who had been continuously evading arrest. Following his statements against senior Aam Aadmi Party leaders in Delhi, his arrest had become a significant challenge for the Punjab Police.