Samajwadi Party leader accused of sexually assaulting, blackmailing female lawyer
What's the story
A female lawyer has filed a case against former state secretary of the Samajwadi Party (SP), Virender Bahadur Pal, accusing him of sexually assaulting and blackmailing her.
The woman, who worked as his assistant, alleged that Pal used explicit videos and photos to coerce her into a sexual relationship over the past year, while also threatening her repeatedly.
Investigation
Investigation underway as accused leader flees
Following the registration of the FIR, Pal, who has twice served as president of the Mau Bar Association, is on the run, India Today reported.
The police have launched a full investigation into the allegations, while medical examinations are being conducted on the victim.
Reports indicate that a physical altercation had also occurred between Pal and his accuser at court premises just two days prior to her filing the complaint.
FIR confirmation
Police confirm FIR lodged against accused SP leader
Mau City Circle Officer (CO) Anjani Kumar Pandey confirmed that the woman has filed a complaint.
"On September 7, the victim filed a complaint in which she detailed the sexual assault, physical violence and threats she faced," said Pandey.
"The accused, Virender Bahadur Pal, a lawyer from Chak Mehndi, Saraylakhansi, is now being investigated. A medical examination of the victim has been conducted, and legal action is underway," he added.
Political ties
Accused leader's political connections highlighted
Pal is not only an SP leader but also a practicing lawyer.
His father, Dayaram Pal, served as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) during the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) government and currently holds the position of national secretary of SP.
The incident took place just weeks after another SP leader, Nawab Singh Yadav, was arrested for allegedly raping a 15-year-old girl.
Yadav is a former aide of MP Dimple Yadav, who is married to SP chief Akhilesh Yadav.