Kataka: Odisha Police have intensified efforts to execute a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against singer Sourin Bhatt after the High Court recently lifted its stay on the warrant issued by the SDJM Court.
According to sources, Kataka Mahila Police Station has sent an email Ballygunge Police Station in Kolkata, forwarding the NBW and relevant court directions. Kolkata Police has been requested to arrest Bhatt and produce him before the court.
The development followed the Orissa High Court’s displeasure over Bhatt’s repeated failure to appear before the lower court. The Cuttack SDJM Court had issued the NBW on November 23, 2023.
The singer had subsequently moved the High Court challenging the warrant, following which its execution was stayed and he was directed to surrender before the lower court.
During a subsequent hearing, his counsel informed the High Court that Bhatt would surrender before the lower court by August 20. However, he failed to do so.
Taking note of the non-compliance, the High Court vacated the stay on the NBW and directed the lower court to take steps to secure his appearance.
The case emerged following a complaint filed by a woman from Kataka, who alleged that Bhatt physically and mentally harassed her after allegedly promising to marry her and offering to help her pursue a career in singing.
In the FIR, Bhatt was accused of taking Rs ten lakh from the woman. The woman had initially lodged a complaint at Jagatpur police station, after which the case was transferred to the Mahila Police Station.
Police registered the case under Sections 294, 323, 341, 376, 417, 493 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code.