In a major breakthrough in a high-profile criminal case, Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra was arrested by Punjab Police in Patiala on Wednesday after remaining absconding for several months. The legislator, a first-time MLA from the Sanour constituency, had been evading arrest since September last year in connection with a rape case registered against him.
According to police officials, the case was originally lodged on September 1, 2025, at the Civil Lines police station in Patiala. The charges include rape, cheating, and criminal intimidation, based on a complaint filed by a woman from Zirakpur. In her complaint, the woman alleged that Pathanmajra misrepresented his marital status, claiming to be divorced, and entered into a relationship with her. She further alleged that he later married her in 2021 despite already being legally married.
The complainant has also accused the MLA of subjecting her to continued sexual exploitation, issuing threats, and sending obscene material. The seriousness of the allegations led to the registration of multiple charges under relevant sections of the law.
Following the registration of the case, Pathanmajra failed to appear before investigating authorities despite repeated notices. As a result, he was declared a proclaimed offender by the court. Since early September 2025, he had been on the run, prompting an extensive search operation by Punjab Police across multiple locations.
The case had earlier taken a dramatic turn when a police team attempted to arrest him in Haryana’s Karnal district. Officials had then claimed that when the police reached a residence in Dabri village, where the MLA was believed to be hiding, they faced resistance. According to the police version, gunshots were fired and stones were pelted by supporters, enabling the accused to escape custody.
However, Pathanmajra had denied these allegations, stating that he fled out of fear for his life, claiming that he suspected a “fake encounter” could be staged against him. His statement added a layer of controversy to the case, which was already under intense public and political scrutiny.
After months of evasion, his arrest is being seen as a significant step forward in the investigation. Police sources indicate that he will now be subjected to detailed interrogation, during which investigators will seek to verify the allegations, gather further evidence, and establish the sequence of events.
The arrest is also likely to have political implications, as opposition parties have previously raised concerns over delays in action against the MLA. The case has drawn attention to issues of accountability and the conduct of public representatives.
Senior officials have reiterated that the law will take its course and that the investigation will proceed strictly on the basis of evidence. Further legal proceedings, including court hearings and possible custodial interrogation, are expected in the coming days.
As the case unfolds, it remains under close watch, both for its legal ramifications and its broader impact on the political landscape in Punjab.
