Allahabad HC prevents arrest of Samajwadi MP Ziaur Rahman Barq amid public incitement probe

The Allahabad High Court has issued an order preventing the arrest of Ziaur Rahman Barq, a Samajwadi Party (SP) Member of Parliament (MP) from Sambhal, who faces allegations of inciting public unrest. Despite granting protection from arrest, the court clarified that the FIR filed against him will not be quashed.

FIR filed for alleged provocation

An FIR was lodged against Barq, accusing him of making inflammatory remarks intended to provoke the public. The charges sparked a legal tussle, leading to the intervention of the High Court. While restraining his arrest, the court underscored the need for Barq’s active cooperation in the ongoing investigation.

इलाहाबाद हाईकोर्ट ने संभल से सपा सांसद जियाउर्रहमान बर्क की गिरफ्तारी पर रोक लगाई। बर्क पर पब्लिक को भड़काने की FIR हुई थी। हालांकि ये FIR रद नहीं होगी। HC ने कहा है कि सांसद इस केस की जांच में पुलिस का सहयोग करें। pic.twitter.com/yzpQqOLpVC

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) January 3, 2025

High court’s directive

In its ruling, the High Court emphasized that immunity from arrest does not absolve the accused of responsibility. “The investigation must continue unhindered,” stated the court, adding that Barq should assist the police in gathering facts pertaining to the case.

A balanced decision

This decision strikes a balance between the legal rights of an elected representative and the necessity of a thorough investigation. It also ensures that the FIR remains valid, allowing authorities to pursue the matter further.

Barq, who is a prominent leader in the Sambhal constituency, has been at the center of political controversies in the past. The latest case adds another chapter to his contentious political journey.