Former Haryana MLA Seeks High Court Protection Amid Alleged Gangster Threats

Imagine, if you will, being a former lawmaker, someone who's served the public, and then finding yourself staring down alleged threats from notorious criminal outfits. That's exactly the precarious situation former Haryana MLA Naresh Kaushik has found himself in, leading him to knock on the doors of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, pleading for his very safety.

In a move that really underscores the gravity of the situation, the High Court has taken serious note, issuing a formal notice to the Haryana government and its top officials. This comes after Mr. Kaushik's petition detailed alarming threats, allegedly emanating from the infamous Lawrence Bishnoi and Kala Jathedi gangs, prompting an urgent need for judicial intervention.

Mr. Kaushik, who once represented the Sampla constituency in Rohtak, presented a compelling case to the court. His petition paints a picture of constant fear, alleging that he's been receiving chilling calls, often from international numbers, demanding hefty sums – classic extortion tactics, unfortunately. It’s not just a vague feeling of unease, either; the plea specifies instances where these threats materialized, like when he was visiting a relative in Jind or simply meeting constituents in a village, making it all feel very real and personal.

What really adds salt to the wound, I'd say, is that his official security cover, which he once had, was apparently pulled back. This happened despite him reportedly still facing these very real and ongoing threats, a decision made, according to his petition, by a 'rationale' committee. It begs the question, doesn't it, about the safety protocols for public figures, even after their active political careers?

His lawyer, S.P.S. Parmar, effectively argued Mr. Kaushik's case before Justice Harkesh Manuja. The petition highlights the former MLA’s active political background, having served two terms in the Haryana Legislative Assembly in 1996 and 2005. This long public service history, he argues, makes him a prominent target for such criminal elements.

Even after filing a police complaint about these terrifying calls and demands, Mr. Kaushik claims no truly effective action was taken, leaving him with no option but to seek recourse from the High Court. This judicial body has now directed key respondents – the Haryana chief secretary, home secretary, director general of police, and the superintendent of police for Rohtak – to furnish their replies by May 2nd. It’s a stark reminder, truly, of how vulnerability can touch anyone, even those who once held positions of power, and how essential a strong legal system is for seeking justice and protection.