SP MLA Ragini Sonkar among three facing arrest warrants in Jaunpur
Jaunpur, October 17: The MP-MLA court on Saturday took a tough stand in the case of violation of the Model Code of Conduct and COVID-19 guidelines during the 2022 Assembly elections in Jaunpur district of Uttar Pradesh.
The court issued non-bailable arrest warrants against three accused, including Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Dr Ragini Sonkar, for their absence despite orders to appear in person. The court rejected the accused’s application for exemption from appearance and postponement of the hearing.
According to the case, on February 17, 2022, an FIR was registered at the Machhlishahr police station against then-SP candidate Dr. Ragini Sonkar, Sarwar Rain, Mohammad Mustaq, Rajesh Yadav, Kailash Sonkar, and 100 to 125 unidentified supporters.
It is alleged that traffic was disrupted during the election by organizing vehicle and foot processions with supporters. According to the police, flags and banners were waved in the processions. Despite repeated warnings, Election Commission directives and COVID-19 regulations were violated.
The police completed the investigation and filed a charge sheet in court. After witness statements were recorded during the hearing, the case was scheduled for the recording of statements from the accused. On the previous date, the court had directed all the accused to appear in person.
During the hearing on Saturday, Sarwar Rain and Mohammad Mushtaq appeared in court, while three accused, including Dr Ragini Sonkar, were absent. Dr Ragini Sonkar and Kailash Sonkar filed applications for exemption from appearance, citing their inability to appear in court due to their travel to Lucknow for the Assembly session. The court rejected the application and issued non-bailable arrest warrants against the three absent accused.
MLA Dr Ragini Sonkar stated that this news is being circulated solely to mislead. This is a case from 2022. Our lawyers are regularly appearing on the dates and taking action in this matter. The next date is October 22. I am speaking with my lawyer about this matter. This is all misleading news being spread.
