Ex-BJP MLA Narendra Mehta booked for rape
Mehta recently resigned from all party posts citing his decision to quit politics, although political circles were abuzz with speculation that it was in response to the complainant’s video (screengrab from Mehta’s video on Facebook)
In a major blow to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), whose leaders were seen campaigning for women’s safety in the Legislative Council earlier this week, its former MLA from Mira Road Narendra Mehta was booked on charges of alleged rape.
The allegation was made by a BJP woman municipal corporator (identity withheld). Earlier this week, the complainant had also shared a video on social media in which she had accused Mehta of harassment and abuse.
Mehta, who is considered close to former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, was booked for sexual assault by the Navghar Police on Friday after the complaint by his party female colleague and a civic lawmaker.
Besides IPC provisions, he has also been slapped with charges under the Atrocities Act following the victim’s complaint. Although, no arrest has been made so far.
Known for his lavish lifestyle, the former MLA was one of the political heavyweights of Mira-Bhayender towns of Thane, considered a BJP stronghold. Back in 2016, Mehta made headlines after he gifted a Rs 5 crore Lamborghini Huracan to his wife on her birthday.
However, his political career has dwindled over the last few years. Most recently, he suffered a defeat at the hands of rival Geeta Jain in last year’s Maharashtra Assembly polls.
Incidentally, Mehta resigned from all party posts three days back citing his decision to quit politics. However, political circles were abuzz with speculation around his resignation, which came days after the complainant’s videos went viral on social media.
