In Noida, Uttar Pradesh, a startling event unfolded when Youtuber Elvish Yadav found himself in the custody of the Noida Police. The reason? Suspected involvement in a curious case revolving around the alleged use of snake venom as a recreational substance at a local gathering. This incident stems from an FIR filed at the Sector 49 police station on November 3 of the previous year, with Yadav being one of the six individuals implicated. Although the other five suspects were apprehended initially, they are presently out on bail.
The charges pressed against Yadav fall under the purview of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, coupled with allegations of criminal conspiracy outlined in Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code. Subsequently, the investigation was transferred from Sector 49 to Sector 20 police station for further scrutiny. Additional DCP (Noida) Manish Mishra confirmed Yadav’s arrest by a team from the Sector 20 police station assigned to delve into the matter.
Yadav, known for clinching victory in the reality show Bigg Boss OTT, vehemently denies any involvement in the alleged offense and has previously cooperated with law enforcement inquiries. Notably, a sub-inspector overseeing the Sector 49 police station during the FIR registration was reassigned. The complaint leading to the filing of the case was filed by a representative of the animal rights organization People For Animals (PFA).
The incident unfolded at a banquet hall in Sector 51 on November 3, where five individuals were apprehended, and authorities rescued nine snakes, including five cobras. Additionally, approximately 20 ml of a substance suspected to be snake venom was confiscated. However, investigations reveal that Yadav was not present at the venue, prompting authorities to delve into his potential involvement in the snake venom saga.
Maneka Gandhi, chairperson of PFA and a prominent figure in the BJP, has directly implicated Yadav in the illicit trade of snake venom, advocating for his immediate apprehension. Interestingly, on November 4, Yadav encountered a brief interrogation by police in Kota, Rajasthan, while traveling with companions. However, he was swiftly released thereafter.