Xpress News24
The main accused in the Jamui molestation case, Nandan Yadav, was arrested on Tuesday after a police encounter in Bihar’s Jamui district. Yadav sustained a bullet injury to his leg, while another accused, Hareram Yadav, was also injured during the police operation. Both were taken to Jamui Sadar Hospital for treatment amid tight security.
The case dates back to September 19, when a minor girl and her male classmate were allegedly stopped by a group of youths while returning from the Madwa-Patrapur hill area. Police said the incident involved abuse, physical assault and molestation. A video of the incident later surfaced on social media, triggering widespread public outrage and prompting the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
According to police officials, Yadav was trying to evade arrest when the encounter took place. The police version is that the accused attempted to flee and a confrontation followed, during which Yadav was shot in the leg. The exact circumstances of the exchange are part of the ongoing investigation.
So, who is Nandan Yadav?
Police and local accounts cited in reports identify him as a resident of Pratappur village under Jamui Town police station. Jamui Superintendent of Police Vishwajit Dayal has described him as having a criminal background. Reports also link him to alleged illegal liquor trade and sand mining activities in the area.
The police investigation is also looking into the wider network around the accused. Officials have been examining the roles of the other people seen in the viral video and those who allegedly helped circulate the footage. Police have said that several suspects have already been detained or arrested, including three juveniles.
The September 19 incident had taken place around 6:45 pm, according to information shared by the police. The girl reportedly informed her family about the incident the following night, after which her father approached the police and a case was registered. The investigation is being conducted under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
Yadav’s name has also surfaced in connection with earlier allegations involving the same area. Reports have referred to a 2021 incident in which an administrative team attempting to stop illegal sand mining was allegedly attacked. However, details of Yadav’s exact role in that earlier case should be established from the relevant police records and court proceedings rather than from local allegations alone.
The latest police action has brought the principal accused into custody, but the investigation is not over. Police are questioning the arrested suspects and trying to establish the role of every person involved in the incident and the subsequent circulation of the video.
The case has also drawn reactions from senior political leaders and renewed attention to the safety of minors in Bihar. Authorities have indicated that the prosecution will seek a speedy trial against those found responsible. Further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.
