In a major political and law-and-order development, Punjab Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra, representing the Sanour constituency, has allegedly escaped from police custody after firing at officers during his arrest in a rape case. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, when Pathanmajra, who had been arrested earlier, reportedly conspired with his aides to make a dramatic getaway.

The Escape Incident

According to police sources, Pathanmajra was being escorted by Punjab Police after his arrest when he allegedly opened fire at the escorting officers. His aides reportedly joined in the attack, creating chaos and providing cover for the MLA’s escape. During the incident, one police officer sustained injuries after reportedly being run over by the accused’s vehicle.

The MLA and his associates fled in two vehicles – a Scorpio and a Fortuner. Punjab Police successfully intercepted and seized the Fortuner, but Pathanmajra managed to flee in the Scorpio. A large-scale chase is now underway as multiple police teams have been deployed to trace the MLA.

Charges Against Pathanmajra

The escape comes after Pathanmajra’s arrest in connection with a rape case registered under Section 376 of the IPC. Additionally, charges of cheating under Section 420 were invoked. The complainant, however, had earlier informed authorities that she was in a live-in relationship with the MLA and had expressed willingness to reconcile.

Pathanmajra’s arrest was seen as a high-profile case, given his stature as an elected legislator from AAP. The matter has attracted public attention not only because of the seriousness of the charges but also due to the MLA’s subsequent dramatic escape from custody.

Lawyer’s Statement and Political Allegations

Pathanmajra’s legal counsel, Advocate Simranjeet Singh Saggu, has dismissed the charges as politically motivated. He argued that the Punjab and Haryana High Court had earlier marked the case for inquiry under the DIG Ropar Range, but despite this, a new FIR was registered.

According to Saggu, the charges of rape and cheating were baseless and politically influenced, especially in the aftermath of recent floods in Punjab, where political blame games have intensified. He further alleged that the FIR represents a tug of war between political leaders and bureaucracy, raising serious questions about governance and impartiality in the state.

Police Response and Current Status

The Punjab Police have confirmed that a statewide search operation is underway to locate and arrest the MLA. Senior officials stated that the escape was a serious breach of law enforcement security and have assured strict action against anyone found complicit in aiding the escape.

The injured police officer is under treatment, and authorities have increased security checks across districts to prevent the MLA from crossing state boundaries.

Political and Public Reactions

The incident has created a storm in Punjab’s political circles. Opposition parties are expected to slam the AAP government over law and order lapses, while AAP is likely to face questions over its handling of the matter and the credibility of its legislators.

For the public, the case has raised concerns about the accountability of elected representatives, misuse of power, and the ability of the police to securely handle high-profile arrests.

Background on Pathanmajra

Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra has been a significant political figure in Punjab politics, representing the Sanour constituency under the Aam Aadmi Party. His political career, however, now faces uncertainty as the rape allegations, custody escape, and allegations of political vendetta converge into a controversy that is likely to dominate state headlines in the coming days.

The Road Ahead

With Pathanmajra still absconding, the situation remains fluid. If arrested again, he will likely face not only the original charges of rape and cheating but also additional charges of attempted murder, escape from custody, and assault on police officers.

The case has turned into a litmus test for Punjab Police and the state government, which will now be under pressure to act swiftly and ensure accountability. The political fallout may also shape Punjab’s upcoming electoral narratives, with the ruling AAP facing uncomfortable questions from both opposition and citizens.

In summary, the escape of an MLA after firing at police during arrest in a rape case has become a serious law-and-order and political crisis in Punjab. As the manhunt continues, all eyes are on the state’s law enforcement agencies and political leadership to see how they resolve this high-stakes standoff.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Vashishtha Luxury Fashion, Karbonsteel Engineering, Sharvaya Metals, Austere Systems, Optivalue Tek Consulting, Vigor Plast India, Goel Construction Company.

The Current active IPO are Amanta Healthcare, Rachit Prints, Abril Paper Tech, Sneha Organics, Sugs Lloyd, Oval Projects.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.