Chamba Special Judge Grants Regular Bail to BJP MLA Hans Raj in POCSO Case
BJP MLA Hans Raj, who represents the Churah constituency in Chamba district, secured significant relief on Thursday after the Special Judge in Chamba confirmed his regular bail in a case filed under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The court had earlier granted him interim anticipatory bail until November 27, with a detailed hearing scheduled for today. After listening to arguments from both sides, the judge upheld his bail, shielding him from arrest while the investigation continues.
The case traces back to August 2024, when the victim lodged a police complaint alleging obscene chats, demands for explicit photographs, threats, and pressure. An FIR was registered at the Chamba Women’s Police Station on August 16, 2024. However, the victim later withdrew her accusations, stating in court and on social media that her earlier claims were made under stress, misunderstanding, and external influence.
The matter reignited on November 7, 2025, when the victim filed a fresh complaint under the POCSO Act. Just a day earlier, her father had also lodged an FIR alleging intimidation and threats. Around the same time, the victim released a seven-minute emotional video on social media, claiming her family’s safety was at risk and accusing the MLA of “ruining” her life.
Hans Raj, in response, dismissed the charges as politically motivated. In a video statement, he argued that the complainant had previously withdrawn similar allegations before “three judges” and accused her of attempting to stir communal tensions. His remarks questioning her lifestyle drew sharp criticism, and he announced plans to pursue a defamation case.
Meanwhile, the victim’s father, joined by Congress leader Yashwant Khanna, alleged at a press conference that after last year’s court statement, the MLA’s associates kidnapped them, took them to Shimla by force, destroyed their mobile phones, and threatened to burn down their house.
With bail now confirmed, the case will proceed as police continue their investigation under the POCSO Act.
