Gwalior, July 1 (IANS) 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, adding to his legal troubles.

The warrant, issued on Tuesday (June 30), 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. Patwari did not appear before the court despite a chargesheet filed against him and summons and a bailable warrant issued earlier.

The MP-MLA court on Tuesday expressed displeasure over Bhind police’s failure to locate Patwari, noting that he is a prominent public figure regularly seen in the media, and directed the Bhind Superintendent of Police to form a special team to execute the warrant and ensure Patwari’s presence in the court.

It warned that action would be taken against officials if the warrant is not carried out this time. The next hearing is scheduled for July 27.

The case pertains to remarks made by Patwari against the BSP candidate during the election campaign. Police had filed the FIR following the BSP complaint, and proceedings have been pending in the special MP-MLA court.

The development comes amid heightened political activity in Madhya Pradesh. On Tuesday, Patwari reiterated his allegations against Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, claiming large-scale land grab in Ujjain.

He said the Congress would take to the streets and launch a mass movement on the issue.

Patwari alleged that the system was shielding the Chief Minister and said his party would continue its campaign until those involved are exposed.

–IANS

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