Bengal Court Issues Arrest Warrant Against Mahua Moitra Over Hate Speech Case

Arrest Warrant Against Mahua Moitra as Bengal Court Flags Repeated Absence in Hate Speech Case

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra is facing an arrest warrant after a Krishnanagar court in West Bengal ordered her arrest on Wednesday for repeatedly failing to appear in an alleged hate speech case. The 3rd Judicial Magistrate directed that the warrant be issued immediately and asked police to submit an execution report by August 28.

The court had directed Moitra to appear on Wednesday, but she did not attend. Her lawyer told the court that the MP would not appear, citing concerns that she might be heckled outside the court premises. The court took a strong view of her continued absence, observing that repeated non-compliance with its orders reflected a “lackadaisical approach”.

The judge said the repeated disobedience had left the court with no option but to issue an arrest warrant. The order also noted the submission by Moitra’s lawyer that she would not appear before the court.

What Is the Case About?

The complaint relates to a video message released by Moitra after women gathered outside the court carrying eggs when they learned that she was expected to appear. In the video, Moitra advised the women to wear veils and organise various programmes. The message was later circulated on social media.

The complainant alleged that her remarks hurt religious sentiments and amounted to provocative comments insulting two religious communities.

The case was filed before the Krishnanagar court on June 17, 2026. Police said the complaint was registered under Sections 79, 196, 299, 351 and 353(2), covering allegations including insulting the modesty of a woman, promoting enmity between groups, outraging religious feelings, criminal intimidation and hate speech.

Court Had Given Multiple Opportunities

The court had previously issued several summonses directing Moitra to appear. She continued to remain absent despite the directions.

She was given time until 5 pm on Wednesday to appear, but did not turn up. The court subsequently proceeded with the arrest warrant.

The magistrate has asked for a report on the execution of the warrant by August 28.

Lawyer Cites Heckling Fears

Moitra’s lawyer told the court that the MP was reluctant to appear because of fears that she could be heckled outside the court. The court, however, rejected the repeated absence as grounds for further delay, pointing to the multiple opportunities already given to her.

The case has now entered a new phase with the arrest warrant in place, while the next major development is expected when police submit the execution report on August 28.