Tej Pratap-Motilal row: ₹20 lakh theft FIR filed, family fears for PA's safety
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A bitter dispute between Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tej Pratap Yadav and his former personal assistant Motilal Yadav has escalated sharply in Patna, with cross-allegations of theft and safety concerns now drawing police into a multi-pronged investigation. An FIR was registered at the Secretariat Police Station following an alleged incident on the night of 22 June at Tej Pratap's official residence on Harding Road, Patna.
What the FIR Alleges
According to the complaint, items allegedly missing from Tej Pratap Yadav's official residence include approximately ₹20 lakh in cash — described as party funds — along with gold jewellery, a MacBook laptop, an iPad, additional laptops, hard disks, drones, and other electronic valuables. Tej Pratap has claimed that his driver and another associate reportedly witnessed Motilal Yadav leaving the premises carrying a bag on the night in question.
Family Raises Safety Alarm
Motilal Yadav's wife, Preeti Bharti, has made separate and serious allegations. She claimed that unidentified individuals entered their home, seized the mobile phones of family members, and repeatedly interrogated them about certain documents. Preeti Bharti stated that the family has had no information about Motilal Yadav's whereabouts since the incident and has been unable to reach him. She expressed fear for her husband's safety and has formally sought protection from the administration. These claims have not yet been independently verified.
Political Fallout Within the Party
In the wake of the controversy, Tej Pratap Yadav moved swiftly on the organisational front — removing Motilal Yadav from all party positions and expelling him from the organisation entirely. He also announced the dissolution of the party's national and state-level bodies and indicated that a new organisational team would be constituted in the near future. The move signals a significant internal restructuring triggered by the row.
Investigation Under Way
A technical team from the Superintendent of Police's office has reportedly visited Tej Pratap Yadav's official residence to examine evidence. The investigation currently encompasses the review of CCTV footage from the residence and surrounding areas, collection of witness statements, verification of the allegedly missing items, and analysis of available digital evidence. Police officials are continuing to examine all aspects of the case. The allegations from both sides remain subject to investigation and have not yet been independently established.
What Happens Next
The outcome of the police probe will determine whether further legal action is pursued. The dual nature of the allegations — a theft complaint on one side and safety fears on the other — means investigators must assess competing narratives simultaneously. All eyes are now on whether Motilal Yadav surfaces and what version of events he presents to authorities.