Congress Leader Seeks Prosecution for Official Changing Statement in Bat Assault Case

Congress leader Sajjan Singh Verma has called for the prosecution of a Madhya Pradesh government official. This official allegedly altered his statement under political pressure after filing an FIR against former BJP MLA Aakash Vijayvargiya, accusing him of assault with a cricket bat.

The case faced a significant setback on Monday when Aakash Vijayvargiya, son of influential state minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, and nine others were acquitted by a special court. They were accused of assaulting Indore Municipal Corporation building inspector Dhirendra Singh Bayas in 2019.

Allegations and Court Proceedings

The primary accusation against Aakash Vijayvargiya was that he attacked Bayas with a cricket bat on June 26, 2019. During cross-examination, Bayas stated he sustained an injury on his right leg below the knee during the alleged assault. However, he claimed he was on the phone at the time and did not see who caused the injury.

Bayas had initially filed a report against Aakash Vijayvargiya and others at a police station. "Now you call it political pressure or whatever, under their influence, Bayas has changed his statement," said Congress leader Verma.

Charges and Arrest

An FIR was lodged against Aakash Vijayvargiya and others under several sections of the Indian Penal Code. These included sections 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of duty), 294 (abusing), 323 (assault), 506 (criminal intimidation), 147 (rioting), and 148 (rioting armed with deadly weapon).

The incident occurred when Aakash Vijayvargiya, then BJP MLA from Indore, was protesting against the demolition of a dilapidated house in Ganji Compound area. He was arrested but later released on bail by the court.

Political Reactions

Verma criticised the municipal official for allegedly lodging a false FIR. He also blamed the police for not investigating the allegations properly. "The municipal official should be prosecuted for lodging a false FIR in connection with the incident," Verma stated.

The Congress leader further expressed his dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the case. He considers them as major culprits for failing to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations.

The acquittal of Aakash Vijayvargiya and others has sparked controversy and raised questions about political influence in legal proceedings. The case continues to be a point of contention among political leaders in Madhya Pradesh.