Maratha Quota Activist Jarange Seeks Discharge in Cheating Case
Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange has taken a significant step in his legal battle by filing an application seeking discharge in a cheating case before a court in Pune. The case, registered under Indian Penal Code sections 420 (cheating) and 406 (criminal breach of trust), stems from a monetary dispute related to the organization of a Marathi play back in 2013.
Jarange, along with two others, found themselves embroiled in the legal proceedings due to allegations of financial wrongdoing in connection with the staging of a play. The court had previously issued a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against Jarange in July, but this warrant was later cancelled in August after he appeared before the judicial magistrate (first class).
Legal Defense Strategy
Jarange’s legal team, consisting of lawyers Harshad Nimbalkar and Shivam Nimbalkar, has argued that there is no prima facie case against their client. They have also contended that the sections of the Indian Penal Code invoked against Jarange are not applicable to the situation at hand. Speaking to PTI, the lawyers stated, “We have filed an application in the court seeking discharge as there is no prima facie case against Jarange. Sections invoked against him are also not applicable.”
The defense further pointed out that the order issued by the court back in 2013 directing the police to register a case against Jarange was flawed and illegal. Harshad Nimbalkar emphasized the irregularities in the legal process, indicating that the case against Jarange lacks a solid legal foundation.
Potential Compromise
In a surprising turn of events, the court has suggested the possibility of a compromise in the case, considering that the complainant is no longer alive. This development could potentially lead to a resolution that benefits all parties involved. Nimbalkar noted, “The court has suggested a compromise noting that the complainant was not alive.”
Upcoming Hearing
The court has scheduled the next hearing in this matter for September 24, following a request from the prosecution for additional time to file its reply. This hearing will be crucial in determining the next steps in the legal proceedings and could shed light on the potential outcome for Jarange and the co-accused.
Background of the Dispute
The origins of the legal battle can be traced back to 2012 when Jarange and his associates approached the complainant, a prominent figure known for staging plays on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The group sought six shows of the play “Shambhuraje” in Jalna district and offered a substantial sum of Rs 30 lakh as compensation.
While a portion of the agreed amount, Rs 16 lakh, was paid upfront, disagreements arose over the remaining balance, leading to the lodging of a formal complaint. The subsequent legal proceedings have brought to light the complexities of the financial arrangement and the differing perspectives of the parties involved.
Moving Forward
As the legal battle continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the court will handle the request for discharge made by Jarange and his legal team. The upcoming hearing on September 24 will be a critical juncture in the case, offering insights into the potential resolution and the overall outcome for the Maratha quota activist.
Conclusion
The case of Manoj Jarange seeking discharge in a cheating case highlights the complexities of legal proceedings and the nuances of financial disputes. With the court considering a potential compromise and the defense team asserting the lack of a prima facie case, the upcoming hearing will be pivotal in determining the course of action. As the legal battle progresses, the resolution of this case could have far-reaching implications for both Jarange and the broader Maratha quota activism movement.