Bengal court issues arrest warrant against Mahua Moitra in hate speech case

A court in West Bengal's Nadia district has issued an arrest warrant against Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra for repeatedly failing to appear in an alleged hate speech case. The 3rd Judicial Magistrate at the Krishnanagar court ordered the warrant on August 19, noting that Moitra had not complied with summonses despite being directed to appear. The court said her absence showed a lackadaisical approach and no respect for the court of law. The police have been asked to submit a report on the warrant's execution by August 28.

The complaint against Moitra, filed by six women, alleges she insulted women and made remarks about Tulsi garlands that hurt religious sentiments, Livemint reports. ABP Live adds that the complainants also objected to comments about Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Moitra's lawyer told the court there were concerns she could be heckled outside the court premises. The arrest warrant does not amount to a finding of guilt, the allegations have not been finally adjudicated.

Separately, Moitra has moved a privilege notice before Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla against three Nadia district officials, Hindustan Times reports. She alleges she was asked to vacate the Nadia Circuit House late on August 14 despite being given her usual room, tea and dinner. Moitra claims the eviction violates parliamentary protocol and her safety as a woman MP. She has sought action against the officials and protection to carry out her constitutional responsibilities.