In relation with violation of the model code of conduct during the recently concluded elections in Madhya Pradesh, a court in Bhopal has issued a bailable warrant against Sambit Patra, the national spokesperson of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
The warrant against Patra was issued by Judicial Magistrate Prakash Kumar Uike after the BJP leader did not attend the court despite repeated summons.
BJP leader S S Uppal, a co-accused, remained present and was given bail on a personal bond of Rs 5,000.
A charge sheet in the case has been filed by the MP Nagar police in Bhopal.
The case was registered against Patra and others based on a complaint by the Election Commission (EC).
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On October 27, Patra held a press conference by the roadside in MP Nagar area in Bhopal, following which the Congress, which was then in the Opposition, filed a complaint of violation of the model code of conduct with the poll body.
EC officials said in the FIR that holding a press conference by blocking a road without due permissions was a violation of the poll code.
Organisers of the press conference had sought permission to hold it between 1 pm and 3 pm but held it earlier at 12 noon, which too was a violation, the EC had said.
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The FIR did not have Patra's name initially. It was added later following a report from the returning officer.
The Congress ousted the BJP from power in the elections held in the state last month.
PTI
