AAP MLA Pathanmajra declared proclaimed offender in rape case
What's the story
A local court in Patiala has declared Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra a proclaimed offender in a rape case. The court took this decision after Pathanmajra repeatedly failed to appear despite repeated summons. The MLA is believed to be hiding in Australia and had already obtained an Australian visa before the incident, even traveling there in the past.
Legal action
Court initiates separate proceedings under BNSS for Pathanmajra
Judicial magistrate Harjot Singh Gill also ordered separate proceedings under Section 85 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). This section permits courts to attach properties of absconding accused persons to ensure their appearance. The court's decision comes after a Zirakpur-based woman accused Pathanmajra of rape, cheating, and criminal intimidation on September 1.
Escape details
Pathanmajra's escape and court proceedings
Reportedly, Pathanmajra fled to Nepal by road to avoid arrest and later flew to Australia. He is believed to be hiding there now. In a television interview, he said he would return only after getting bail from the Punjab and Haryana High Court. "I have already applied for bail in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Once I get bail, I will return," he had said.
Proclamation notice
Court issues proclamation notice, declares Pathanmajra a proclaimed person
On October 15, the court had initiated proceedings under Section 82 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) after Pathanmajra failed to join the investigation. A proclamation notice was issued at his residence in Pathanmajra village, Patiala district. The notice directed him to appear before the court by November 12 or be declared a proclaimed person.
Escape facilitation
Pathanmajra's relative involved in facilitating escape
Officials said Pathanmajra fled from the residence of his relative Gurnam Singh Laddi in Dabri village, Karnal, on September 2. This was just minutes before a Punjab Police team arrived to arrest him. The Haryana Police later registered a separate case against both Pathanmajra and Laddi for obstructing duty and facilitating his escape.