BJP MLA Sadhu Charan Mahato misses first day of Jharkhand assembly

JAMSHEDPUR: Newly elected BJP MLA Sadhu Charan Mahato from Ichagarh constituency will not be able to attend the inaugural session of Jharkhand assembly today after his bail petition was rejected by the court.

"I have moved a bail petition in the district court of Seraikela-Kharswan, which is expected to be heard later in the day today after the sub-judicial magistrate court rejected my bail petition recently," Mahato said.

"I have prayed to the court to grant me bail so that I can attend the assembly session and take oath," he said.

The four-day inaugural session of the fourth Jharkhand assembly began today.

Mahato and Arvind Kumar Singh, former MLA of Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) JVM(P) were arrested following a clash between their supporters on the eve of polling in the state on December 9.

Singh, who had represented Ichagarh constituency thrice, lost to Mahato in the assembly poll.

Mahato, who is a first time legislator, is undergoing treatment at Tata Main Hospital here under police custody. Singh is also being treated at M G M Hospital.