An MP-MLA court in Gwalior has issued an arrest warrant against Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari in connection with a 2024 case registered in Bhind. The warrant, issued on Tuesday, relates to an FIR lodged at Umri police station during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Patwari had accused BSP candidate Devashish Jarariya of financial impropriety and colluding with the BJP in the elections.
Based on a complaint by BSP office-bearer Ashok Gupta, police registered a case against Patwari on April 27, 2024. Despite a chargesheet filed against him and summons and a bailable warrant issued earlier, Patwari did not appear before the court. The MP-MLA court expressed displeasure over Bhind police’s failure to locate Patwari, directing the Bhind Superintendent of Police to form a special team to execute the warrant and ensure Patwari’s presence in the court.
The court warned that action would be taken against officials if the warrant is not carried out this time, with the next hearing scheduled for July 27. The case revolves around remarks made by Patwari against the BSP candidate during the election campaign, leading to the filing of the FIR by the police following the BSP complaint. Proceedings have been pending in the special MP-MLA court.
The recent development occurs amidst increased political activity in Madhya Pradesh. Patwari reiterated his allegations against Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Tuesday, accusing him of large-scale land grab in Ujjain. He stated that the Congress would initiate street protests and launch a mass movement on the issue, alleging that the system was protecting the Chief Minister and vowing to continue the campaign until those involved are exposed.
