Chandigarh: Punjab police are on high alert after Harmeet Singh Pathanmajra, a first-time MLA from Sunamur representing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), reportedly fled to Australia following allegations of rape. Despite multiple raids at his potential hideouts, Pathanmajra has managed to evade arrest. A recent video interview with an overseas Punjabi web channel confirmed his presence outside India, embarrassing the Punjab police, who have been searching for him for weeks. Consequently, the Patiala police have issued a lookout notice against him.
Allegations and Political Claims
Pathanmajra has been absconding since 2 September. In the video interview, he claimed he would return only after obtaining bail and denied the charges, calling the case a political conspiracy. He criticized Punjab authorities, alleging that ministers and legislators are excluded from consultations on important matters. He further took a swipe at Delhi leadership, suggesting that political forces that failed in Delhi are now trying to dominate Punjab, imposing restrictions on freedom of expression.
Previous Escapes and Police Action
Earlier, Pathanmajra had escaped from police custody in Karnal, Haryana, when officers attempted to arrest him. During a subsequent raid at a relative’s house in Dabri village, his supporters allegedly opened fire and pelted stones at police personnel. The MLA later denied involvement in the shooting, claiming he fled to avoid a staged encounter.
FIR and Complaint
The case was registered on 1 September at the Civil Lines Police Station in Patiala, under charges of rape, fraud, and criminal intimidation. A woman from Zirakpur has accused Pathanmajra of lying about his marital status, marrying her in 2021 despite already being married, and subjecting her to sexual exploitation, threats, and obscene content.
The Patiala court has now declared Pathanmajra a fugitive, intensifying efforts to apprehend him. Authorities are investigating the full network of his alleged associates and tracking his movements internationally.
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