Why has BJP MPs son appointment as law officer created flutter? The answer is 2017 stalking case
Vikas Barala's appointment has sparked a political furore as the BJP leader's son is facing sexual harassment charges in an alleged stalking and attempted abduction case involving a bureaucrat's daughter.
New Delhi: The appointment of Vikas Barala, the son of Rajya Sabha MP and former Haryana BJP chief Subhash Barala, as an Assistant Advocate General (AAG) in Haryana, has created a flutter in political circles. Vikas' name is among the 97 new appointments listed in the notification to the several key posts, including Assistant Advocate Generals.
Why Vikas Barala's appointment as law officer under scanner
Vikas's appointment has sparked a political furore as the BJP leader's son is facing sexual harassment charges in an alleged stalking and attempted abduction case involving a bureaucrat's daughter.
Vikas, who is named as an accused in the 2017 case, allegedly tried to kidnap Varnika Kundu, a disc jockey and the daughter of an IAS officer, eight years ago. He and his friend allegedly chased and tried to forcibly enter Kundu's vehicle late at night in Chandigarh. Based on a complaint filed by Kundu, the two were booked under relevant sections of law and arrested. However, they were released on bail later.
Vikas was law student during 2017 incident
At the time of the incident, Vikas was a law student and he appeared for the degree exam from Kurukshetra University in December 2017 following High Court's permission. The trial in the sexual harassment case is still pending with a Chandigarh court and the next hearing is scheduled for August 2.
Vikas has been appointed as a law officer at the Advocate General’s Delhi office on the screening committee's recommendation. The panel, headed by AG Haryana, comprises two retired judges. With this appointment, Vikas will now be representing Haryana's govt before judicial platforms in Delhi, including the Supreme Court.