Rajasthan High Court Frames Charges Against Former MLA in Engineer Assault Case
The Rajasthan High Court on Wednesday framed charges against former MLA and BJP member Girraj Singh Malinga in a high-profile case involving the alleged assault on two engineers at the Bari Discom office in Dholpur. The incident, which occurred on March 28, 2022, has drawn significant attention due to the severity of the injuries and the legal proceedings that have followed.
Details of the Alleged Assault
The assault targeted assistant engineer Harshadapati and junior engineer Nitin Gulati. According to reports, Malinga, who was a Congress legislator at the time, along with his supporters, allegedly carried out the attack. The engineers were assaulted while performing their official duties, leading to accusations of obstruction of government work and violations under the SC/ST Act.
Harshadapati suffered extensive injuries in the incident, with medical reports indicating 22 bone fractures. This brutal attack resulted in the arrest of five individuals, highlighting the gravity of the case. The charges have been framed nearly four years after the assault, underscoring the prolonged legal battle.
Legal Proceedings and Court Decisions
Counsel for Harshadapati, Malti, stated that charges were framed against Malinga and others under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the SC/ST Act. The legal process has seen several key developments, including a significant transfer of the trial venue.
On July 7, 2025, the Rajasthan High Court ordered the transfer of the trial from Dholpur to Jaipur. This decision was made in response to a criminal transfer petition filed by Harshadapati, who expressed fears of witness intimidation and the influential status of the accused in the Dholpur region. The court cited concerns over witness safety as a primary reason for the transfer.
In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition filed by Malinga on November 7, challenging the high court's decision to move the trial to Jaipur. This dismissal reinforces the high court's stance on ensuring a fair trial environment, free from potential coercion or influence.
Implications and Ongoing Developments
The framing of charges marks a critical step in the judicial process, bringing the case closer to a trial. It reflects the judiciary's commitment to addressing allegations of violence and discrimination, particularly under the SC/ST Act, which aims to protect marginalized communities from atrocities.
As the trial proceeds in Jaipur, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the proceedings for outcomes that could set precedents in similar cases. The involvement of a former MLA adds a political dimension to the case, making it a focal point for discussions on accountability and justice in Rajasthan.
This case serves as a reminder of the challenges in ensuring witness protection and the importance of judicial interventions to uphold the rule of law, especially in regions where accused individuals hold significant influence.
