Katni CSP Neha Pachisia's anticipatory bail rejected by MP court
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A district court in Katni, Madhya Pradesh on Saturday, 29 August 2026 rejected the anticipatory bail plea of suspended City Superintendent of Police (CSP) Neha Pachisia, delivering a significant legal setback in a case involving an alleged land deal and misuse of official position. The court dismissed application BA/821/2026, citing the gravity of the allegations and the volume of evidence gathered during the ongoing investigation.
Why the Court Rejected the Plea
The district court found the allegations against Pachisia serious enough to deny pre-arrest bail protection. An FIR was registered against her at Kuthla police station in connection with the alleged land transaction and abuse of her official authority. Pachisia has been absconding since the FIR was filed, a fact that reportedly weighed against her application.
Who Else Is Absconding
Two alleged associates — financier Kshitij Raj Barapatre and paper buyer Maroof Ahmed Hanfi — are also at large. Police have announced a reward of ₹10,000 each for credible information leading to the arrest of all three accused.
Government Action and SIT Probe
The case drew high-level attention after Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav personally ordered action against Pachisia following allegations of irregularities in a land transaction. The state government subsequently suspended her, with the Chief Minister making the announcement on Thursday. An eight-member Special Investigation Team (SIT), headed by Jabalpur Additional Superintendent of Police Anjana Tiwari, is now probing the matter, examining bank transactions, documents, and digital records linked to the alleged deal.
What Investigators Are Examining
Katni Superintendent of Police Abhinay Vishwakarma confirmed that searches were under way at multiple locations. 'Searches are being conducted at possible hideouts, and all available evidence is being examined. Police teams are making continuous efforts to trace the accused,' he said. Investigators are also focusing on financial and documentary evidence to establish the sequence of events in the alleged land deal. According to police sources, the sealed office of the suspended CSP may be opened to seize documents and electronic records considered relevant to the case.
What Happens Next
'The investigation is based on documentary, financial and digital evidence. Further action will be taken according to law after examining all the evidence,' Vishwakarma added. With the anticipatory bail route now closed, Pachisia faces heightened arrest risk if she remains at large. The SIT's findings are expected to shape the next phase of the case, including potential charge-sheet proceedings.