Independent Lok Sabha MP Rajesh Ranjan alias Pappu Yadav was targeted at his own press conference on Sunday evening in New Delhi, when a man allegedly hurled a slipper at him during a media interaction at his official residence on Pandara Road. The MP subsequently alleged that another individual had brought a knife to the gathering with the intent to attack him, raising serious security concerns inside a high-security residential zone.

What Happened at the Press Conference

The incident unfolded while the Purnia MP was addressing journalists at his official residence. According to the MP's supporters, 3-4 individuals were present among the media persons when one of them suddenly flung a slipper at Yadav. The assailant was identified as Sumit, a resident of Bulandshahr in Uttar Pradesh.

Jaid Khan, Media Convenor for the Purnia MP, said, 'A press conference was underway when 3-4 people started asking questions from the MP. Suddenly, one of them hurled a slipper at the MP.' He added, 'At the same time, one of them was seen pulling out a knife. Those standing nearby tried to overpower the man with the knife, sparking a commotion.'

The Knife Allegation and Detention

Supporters of the MP reportedly thrashed Sumit in the immediate aftermath, but Pappu Yadav himself intervened to shield the attacker and handed him over to police. Sumit was subsequently detained by police. He claimed he was angered by the MP's alleged disrespectful remarks against saints, according to reports.

The alleged knife-wielding individual was overpowered by bystanders before any attack could be carried out, according to Khan. Police are investigating both the slipper-hurling and the knife allegation.

MP's Claim of Threats Over Ayodhya Donation Issue

Following the incident, Yadav alleged that he had been facing threats from anti-social elements ever since he raised the issue of alleged donation theft in Ayodhya. He further alleged that a bounty of up to ₹51 lakh had reportedly been placed on his head in connection with his public statements on the matter.

Notably, the incident came just a day after a police complaint was filed against Pappu Yadav, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and others over a skit performed on the Parliament premises related to Ram Mandir donations.

Security Questions in a High-Profile Zone

The fact that a slipper was hurled — and a knife allegedly produced — inside a high-security residential zone reserved for Members of Parliament has drawn attention to gaps in security protocol at official MP residences. This is not the first time political figures have faced disruptions at press events, but the alleged presence of a knife elevates the seriousness of this episode.

As of now, Sumit remains in police custody. Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances under which the individuals gained access to the MP's press conference, and whether the alleged threats against Yadav are being formally probed by security agencies.