PTC Web Desk: A court in West Bengal’s Nadia district has ordered the issuance of an arrest warrant against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra in an alleged hate speech case.

The Krishnanagar court passed the order on Wednesday after Mahua Moitra did not appear before it despite repeated directions and summonses. The court has also asked the authorities to submit a report on the execution of the warrant on August 28.

Court takes action over repeated non-appearance

The case was filed against Mahua Moitra over allegations that she made remarks that insulted women and amounted to hate speech. The court had earlier issued pre-cognisance summons to the TMC leader.

The 3rd Judicial Magistrate at Krishnanagar Court noted that Mahua Moitra had failed to appear despite several summonses. On Tuesday, the court had specifically directed her to be present on Wednesday.

However, she did not appear before the court.

In its order, the court said Mahua Moitra’s repeated failure to follow its directions showed a lack of seriousness towards complying with the proceedings. The judge said the court had no option left but to issue an arrest warrant.

Lawyer says she will not appear

During the hearing, Mahua Moitra’s lawyer reportedly told the court that she would not appear before it at any stage. The court viewed the statement seriously. The MP’s lawyer also expressed concern that she could face heckling or harassment outside the court premises if she came to appear in person.

Charges mentioned in complaint

According to a senior official of the Krishnanagar Police District, the complaint includes allegations under several sections of law.

These include provisions related to insulting the modesty of a woman, promoting enmity between groups, outraging religious feelings, criminal intimidation and hate speech.

The court has now directed that the arrest warrant be executed and that a report be submitted on August 28.


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- With inputs from agencies

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