A special MP-MLA court has issued an arrest warrant against Madhya Pradesh Congress president Jitu Patwari in connection with alleged defamatory remarks made during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign against BSP candidate Devashish Jararia. The court also directed the Bhind Superintendent of Police to ensure Patwari’s presence at the next hearing on 27 July.

During the hearing, the court strongly questioned the police’s claim that Patwari could not be traced, remarking that if his statements and political activities are visible everywhere, it was hard to understand why police could not find him. The judge’s comments made it clear that the court was displeased with the progress of the case.

What the case is about

The case dates back to 27 April 2024, when Patwari was campaigning in the Umri area of Bhind district in support of Congress candidate Phool Singh Baraiya. During that public meeting, he allegedly accused Devashish Jararia of having links and dealings with the BJP after Jararia had left Congress and joined the BSP.

According to the complaint, Patwari also used informal and disrespectful language while making the allegations, which Jararia objected to. A video CD of the rally was later submitted with the complaint, forming part of the evidence in the case.

FIR and court action

Based on Jararia’s complaint, Bhind’s Umri police station registered an FIR against Patwari on 4 May 2024. The court had earlier issued a notice asking him to appear on 16 January 2026, but he did not appear before the court.

At the latest hearing, police told the court that they were unable to locate him. The court rejected that explanation and ordered the Bhind SP to ensure that Patwari is produced in court on the next date.

Why it matters

The order adds legal pressure on one of Madhya Pradesh’s most prominent opposition leaders. It also reflects the court’s dissatisfaction with the police response and the delay in securing the accused’s presence.

If the next hearing goes forward as scheduled, the court is expected to examine both the alleged remarks and Patwari’s non-appearance. The case will likely continue to draw political attention because it involves campaign speech, defamation allegations and a sitting party chief.