The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over the state government’s failure to submit a status report in a POCSO case involving BJP MLA from Churah, Dr. Hans Raj, cautioning that strict action would follow if delays continue. While hearing a petition challenging the MLA’s bail, Justice Sandeep Sharma noted that despite multiple opportunities, the state had not filed the required report. The court granted a final extension of 10 days, making it clear that no further leniency would be shown. In a firm directive, the court ordered that if the report is not filed by the next hearing, the Superintendent of Police, Chamba, must appear in person. The case is scheduled for further hearing on April 2. The petition was filed by the complainant, contesting the anticipatory bail granted to the MLA by a POCSO court on November 27, 2025. It calls for cancellation of bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and alleged shortcomings in the investigation. Court records indicate the state had previously sought additional time to submit its response. The matter was later reassigned after a judge recused from the case due to personal reasons. The case involves allegations by a young woman who accused the MLA of sexually exploiting her when she was a minor. An FIR was subsequently registered under the POCSO Act at the Women Police Station in Chamba.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
