Lucknow Police has taken legal action against Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Sumaiya Rana, issuing her a formal notice to appear before a court. The notice comes in response to her alleged public call for a protest that involved surrounding the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the official residence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Police Cite Threat to Law and Order
The notice was formally issued by the Assistant Commissioner of Police-cum-Executive Magistrate of Kaiserbagh. Authorities stated that the proposed 'gherao' and protest, allegedly advocated by Rana, presented a serious threat to public law and order and could potentially compromise the security of high-profile dignitaries.
Police expressed specific concerns that such a demonstration could disrupt the ongoing session of the State Assembly and create disturbances within the jurisdiction of the Lucknow Police Commissionerate. The notice directs Rana to present herself before the court on Monday, either personally or through a legal representative.
Legal Demands and Political Context
In the notice, Rana has been asked to explain why she should not be required to furnish a personal bond of Rs 5 lakh, supported by two sureties of the same amount. This bond would be to ensure she maintains peace for a duration of one year.
According to police officials, Rana's call for protest was linked to the recent controversy involving Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar removing the veil (hijab) of a female doctor. The SP leader had also voiced strong objection to the support extended to Kumar's action by Uttar Pradesh minister and Nishad Party chief Sanjay Nishad.
Rana's Counter-Allegations and Police Standoff
When contacted, Sumaiya Rana, who is the national spokesperson for the Samajwadi Party and the national vice-president of its Mahila wing, provided her version of events. She revealed that a police team visited her residence on Saturday to deliver the notice physically.
"When I refused to accept it, the police sent it to me on WhatsApp," Rana stated. She countered that her efforts have been focused on seeking legal action against Nitish Kumar and Sanjay Nishad for their roles in the hijab incident. Rana alleged that despite submitting a written complaint, the police did not register a First Information Report (FIR) based on her allegations.
Rana explained that two days prior to receiving the notice, she had gone to the Lucknow Police Commissioner's office to submit her complaint. She had decided that if she could not meet with officials there, she would proceed to the Chief Minister's residence. However, a police team intervened and prevented her from moving forward.
"Since the police have not registered my complaint, I have decided to approach the court seeking directions for the registration of an FIR," Rana added, outlining her next legal step. Attempts to reach the concerned Assistant Commissioner of Police for an official comment on the matter were unsuccessful.
Sumaiya Rana is the daughter of noted poet Munawwar Rana, adding a notable personal dimension to the political and legal confrontation. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between opposition political activism and state authorities concerning public protests and the registration of criminal cases.
