The Krishnanagar court cited repeated non-compliance with its orders and directed that the warrant execution report be submitted by August 28
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has run into fresh legal trouble after a court in West Bengal’s Nadia district issued an arrest warrant against her in a hate speech case on Wednesday.
The Krishnanagar court took the step after Moitra failed to appear despite repeated summons. The 3rd Judicial Magistrate directed that the warrant be issued immediately and sought a report on its execution by August 28.
The case stems from allegations that Moitra made objectionable remarks concerning women and religious sentiments. The court had earlier issued pre-cognisance summons requiring her appearance.
The matter escalated after Moitra did not appear despite being given multiple opportunities. On Tuesday, the court had directed her to be present on Wednesday, but she remained absent.
The court criticised what it described as a repeated failure to comply with its orders, observing that it had no option but to issue the arrest warrant.
Moitra’s lawyer had raised concerns over her safety, telling the court that she apprehended being heckled outside the premises if she appeared in person. The defence had also sought exemption from personal appearance.
The complaint invokes provisions relating to allegedly insulting the modesty of a woman, promoting enmity between groups, outraging religious feelings, criminal intimidation and hate speech, according to police officials cited in reports.
The latest development adds to the legal challenges facing the Krishnanagar MP. Earlier this month, the Supreme Court declined to interfere with a Calcutta High Court order requiring her to appear before police in another case concerning alleged controversial remarks.
With the Nadia court now seeking execution of the arrest warrant, attention will turn to whether Moitra appears before the court and how the case proceeds at the next stage.
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