Ex-MLA Jadhav Sentenced for Assaulting Officer in 2014

In a significant verdict, a court sentenced former MLA Harshvardhan Raibhan Jadhav to one year in prison for the 2014 assault on a police officer during a political meeting. The judgment was delivered by Additional District and Sessions Judge R J Rai, marking the culmination of a long-standing case.

Jadhav, noted as the son-in-law of prominent BJP leader Raosaheb Danve, had previously served in the Maharashtra legislative assembly. His political affiliations included major parties like Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena. The incident involved Jadhav allegedly slapping Nagpur police inspector Parag Jadhav at a meeting with the undivided Shiv Sena.

Despite being granted bail, Jadhav missed several court hearings, leading to an arrest warrant. Upon surrendering in February, he was detained but later hospitalized before securing bail. The court, convinced by Public Prosecutor Charushila Paunikar, convicted Jadhav under IPC sections for deterring a public servant, also imposing a fine which, if unpaid, would extend his prison term.

(With inputs from agencies.)