Charges in Muzaffarnagar Riots: 19 Politicians in the Dock

A special MP-MLA court has framed charges against 19 political figures in connection to the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots. Notable figures include UP Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal and others. The charges involve inciting communal tension and violating prohibitory orders. The next hearing is slated for January 30.

A special MP-MLA court took significant legal action on Friday, charging several high-profile BJP leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Minister Kapil Dev Aggarwal, in a case related to the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots. Among those charged are former Union minister Sanjeev Balyan and Samajwadi Party MP Harender Malik.

Judge Devender Singh Fauzdar framed charges against 19 individuals, including VHP leader Sadhvi Prachi and controversial priest Yati Narsinghanand. Accusations include violating prohibitory orders and inciting communal tension.

The charges are based on multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Criminal Law Amendment Act, including wantonly provoking riots and disobedience of public orders. The legal proceedings continue, with the next court hearing scheduled for January 30.

(With inputs from agencies.)