A MP-MLA Court in Begusarai, Bihar, on Monday continued the anticipatory bail granted to Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh in a case stemming from his controversial 'Do Gaz Zameen' remark made during the 2019 Lok Sabha election campaign. The court also reserved its order on Singh's plea seeking permanent exemption from personal appearance in future hearings.

What Happened in Court

Giriraj Singh appeared in person before the court during a one-day visit to Begusarai, participating in the proceedings. His counsel invoked Section 205 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to seek a standing exemption from future appearances, citing Singh's extensive ministerial responsibilities. The court, after hearing arguments, confirmed that the previously granted anticipatory bail would remain in force.

Origins of the Case

According to Senior Advocate Amarendra Kumar 'Amar', who appeared in the matter, the charges against Singh trace back to a speech he delivered at a public meeting on the G.D. College campus in Begusarai on 6 April 2019, during the Lok Sabha campaign. The remarks — widely referred to as the 'Do Gaz Zameen' statement — triggered significant political controversy. An FIR was subsequently registered as Nagar Police Station Case No. 221/2019, following directions from the then District Magistrate Rahul Kumar through the then Circle Officer. The case includes allegations of inflammatory remarks and promoting communal disharmony.

What the Defence Argued

The defence contended that despite several years having elapsed since the FIR was lodged, the prosecution has yet to produce what it considers critical evidence. Notably, no authenticated voice recording of the alleged speech has been submitted before the court, nor have key seizure records or other supporting documents been presented during proceedings. The defence argued this evidentiary gap undermines the prosecution's case.

Giriraj Singh's Response

Speaking to journalists after the hearing, Singh alleged that the case was filed with political motives during the heat of the 2019 election campaign. He claimed that charges under provisions related to Model Code of Conduct violations and other serious offences were framed due to political rivalry. Singh expressed full confidence in the judiciary and thanked the court for what he described as a fair consideration of the matter.

What Comes Next

The court's ruling on the exemption plea — reserved after Monday's arguments — is awaited. The outcome will determine whether Singh must continue appearing personally at future hearings. This is the latest in a series of proceedings in a case that has remained legally active for over five years since the original FIR.