Calcutta HC grants protection from arrest to Mahua Moitra till October 5, directs police to ensure security

The Calcutta High Court, in a bench presided over by Justice Saugata Bhattacharya, has granted interim protection to Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, directing that no coercive action be taken against her until October 5, provided she cooperates with the police investigation. The court noted that since the offenses alleged against her carry maximum sentences under seven years, she is entitled to statutory protection, subject to her compliance with the ongoing probe.

Addressing the court during the hearing, Mahua's legal counsel highlighted her current engagement in the ongoing Lok Sabha session and assured that she will appear before the investigating officer on August 14 at 3:00 PM. The Advocate General informed the bench that four summonses were issued previously and that she had failed to appear. In response, the judge instructed police authorities to ensure full security during her appearance to prevent any untoward incidents, egg-pelting, or harassment.

The legal proceedings stem from an incident in Palashi during a July 21 preparatory meeting, where local protesters and BJP supporters allegedly gathered, raised slogans, and threw eggs. Mahua Moitra live-streamed the incident on Facebook and made remarks that generated political controversy, subsequently leading to police complaints and counter-allegations.