The Supreme Court today mandated the Allahabad High Court to decide within ten days on a plea by Samajwadi Party leader Irfan Solanki, seeking a stay on his conviction in an arson case. Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan of the Supreme Court stressed the need for a quick resolution, reflecting the high stakes involved in the case.
Irfan Solanki, a former MLA from Sisamau in Kanpur, was found guilty by a local court in Uttar Pradesh for his involvement in an incident where a woman’s house was set on fire. Following his conviction, he was sentenced to seven years in prison and was consequently disqualified from his legislative position.
The criminal charges against Solanki and his co-accused, including his younger brother Rizwan Solanki, originated from an incident reported on November 8, 2022. The complaint, filed by Nazir Fatima, accused the Solanki brothers of arson as part of an alleged conspiracy to forcibly acquire her property. The specific charges framed against them include Sections 436 (Mischief by fire), 506 (Criminal intimidation), and several others related to rioting, extortion, and criminal conspiracy under the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Solanki’s legal team moved the Allahabad High Court seeking a stay on his conviction and the sentence awarded, hoping to suspend the enforcement of his sentence pending further appeal. The High Court had adjourned the matter to November 6, prompting Solanki to seek the intervention of the Supreme Court to expedite the process.
This rapid directive from the Supreme Court comes at a critical time, as any delay could impact Solanki’s political career and personal liberty. The outcome of the Allahabad High Court’s decision following the Supreme Court’s order will significantly influence Solanki’s ability to participate in active politics and his immediate legal status.
