Is Former MLA Girraj Singh Malinga Facing Attempt to Murder Charges?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jaipur, Jan 29 (NationPress) The SC-ST Special Court in Jaipur, Rajasthan has brought forth charges against ex-MLA Girraj Singh Malinga under multiple provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the SC-ST Act, notably including attempt to murder, which could lead to life imprisonment if he is convicted.
Special Judge Vidyanand Shukla has framed these charges against Malinga alongside seven others implicated in the case.
This incident traces back to March 28, 2022, when Malinga was the serving MLA for the Bari assembly constituency in Dholpur district.
The prosecution alleges that Malinga incited and orchestrated an attack on Assistant Engineer (AEN) Harshadapati and Junior Engineer (JEN) Nitin Gulati at the Bari Discom office.
The police filed an FIR on March 29, 2022, citing various sections addressing assault, interference with official duty, and provisions of the SC-ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Following directives from the Rajasthan High Court, the trial was moved from Dholpur to Jaipur.
The court in Jaipur has now laid out charges against Malinga and co-accused Rakesh, Bhola, Sachin, Guman, Pramod, and Sameer under pertinent IPC sections and the SC-ST Act.
Malinga's bail status has been controversial. Initially, he was granted bail by the High Court on May 17, 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after his release, Malinga allegedly led a public rally with supporters. This was perceived as an abuse of bail conditions, leading the High Court to revoke his bail on July 5, 2024, mandating his surrender within 30 days.
Following the Supreme Court's instructions, Malinga surrendered to the SC-ST court in Dholpur on November 20. He subsequently obtained bail from the Supreme Court and is currently free on bail as the trial moves forward.
The framing of charges is a notable advancement in this protracted case, signaling the impending start of the trial, according to officials.