haryana Govt Appoints Vikas Barala as Assistant Advocate General Amidst Controversy
The Haryana government has appointed vikas Barala, son of BJP Rajya Sabha MP Subhash Barala, as an Assistant advocate General (AAG) for the state. This decision has ignited debate and drawn criticism.
Vikas Barala is prominently known for his alleged involvement in a 2017 stalking and attempted abduction case. The victim in that case was Varnika Kundu, daughter of a Haryana IAS officer, V.S. Kundu.
The incident, which occurred on the night of August 4, 2017, saw Barala and a friend accused of blocking kundu’s path.Reports indicate they allegedly attempted too persuade her and even tried to enter her vehicle as she was returning home.
Initially charged under Section 354D for stalking, additional charges, including attempted abduction, were later added.Formal charges were framed in October of that year, and Vikas Barala spent over five months in jail.
the case remains under judicial scrutiny in a Chandigarh local court. Efforts to reach Varnika Kundu for comment on the appointment yielded a measured response.
“As far as the appointment of Vikas Barala is concerned, I think the competent authority that appointed him can answer,” Kundu stated over the phone to India Today. She added that they are all learned individuals capable of providing answers.
Regarding her own case, Kundu expressed a continued faith in the judicial system. Though, she noted the passage of time, stating, “it has been 8 years now. A lot of attention has also gone away from the case.”
Barala’s new role places him among seven law officers designated to represent Haryana’s legal interests in New delhi.This appointment is part of a larger recruitment of 96 law officers,encompassing various senior and junior legal positions.
These officers are tasked with representing Haryana’s legal interests before the Punjab and Haryana high Court in Chandigarh and in Delhi.
Understanding Legal Appointments
The appointment of legal officers within state governments ofen involves meticulous selection processes to ensure representation in complex legal matters. These roles are crucial for advocating the state’s position in various judicial forums.
In Haryana, as in many other Indian states, a panel of legal professionals is appointed to handle litigation and provide legal counsel. The selection criteria typically emphasize legal acumen, experience, and adherence to established recruitment norms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Vikas Barala?
- Vikas barala is the son of BJP Rajya Sabha MP Subhash Barala. He has been appointed as an Assistant Advocate General (AAG) of Haryana.
- What is the controversy surrounding his appointment?
- the controversy stems from his alleged involvement in a 2017 stalking and attempted abduction case involving Varnika Kundu.
- What is the current status of the 2017 case?
- The case is still being heard in a local court in Chandigarh. Vikas Barala spent over five months in jail during the initial proceedings.
- how many law officers has Haryana appointed?
- Haryana has appointed a total of 96 law officers, including AAGs, Senior Deputy Advocate Generals, Deputy Advocate Generals, and Assistant Advocate Generals.
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How does the appointment of the MPS son as a law officer potentially undermine the principles of due process and natural justice in the stalking investigation?
Haryana BJP MP’s Son Appointed Law Officer Amidst Stalking Allegations
The Appointment & The Allegations
The recent appointment of the son of a Haryana Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) as a law officer has ignited controversy, coming amidst serious allegations of stalking. The appointment, finalized on July 22, 2025, has drawn criticism from opposition parties and women’s rights activists, raising questions about due process and the potential for influence. Details surrounding the specific charges and the ongoing investigation are currently limited, but reports indicate the allegations involve a young woman in Haryana.
This situation highlights a growing concern regarding accountability and transparency within the political landscape of Haryana, a state bordering Delhi known for its economic development and, as noted in recent reports, a concerning gender ratio [1].The timing of the appointment, so close to the surfacing of these allegations, is fueling accusations of shielding and preferential treatment.
Details of the Allegations: What we certainly know So Far
While the investigation is ongoing, key details emerging regarding the stalking allegations include:
Nature of the Allegations: Reports suggest a pattern of unwanted attention, harassment, and intimidation directed towards the complainant.
Police Involvement: A First Facts Report (FIR) was reportedly filed with the Haryana Police, initiating a formal investigation.The specific sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) invoked are currently under review.
Complainant’s Statement: The complainant has reportedly provided a detailed statement to the police outlining the alleged incidents and the distress caused.
Legal Representation: Both the complainant and the accused are currently represented by legal counsel.
The Law Officer Position: Scope & Responsibilities
the position to which the MP’s son has been appointed is a crucial one within the Haryana legal framework. Law officers in Haryana typically:
- Advise the Government: Provide legal advice to various departments of the state government.
- Represent in Court: Represent the state government in legal proceedings before various courts and tribunals.
- Draft Legislation: Assist in the drafting and vetting of new legislation.
- Ensure Compliance: Ensure that government actions comply with the law.
The specific portfolio and responsibilities assigned to the newly appointed law officer are yet to be publicly disclosed. However, given the sensitivity of the allegations, concerns are being raised about potential conflicts of interest.
Political Reactions & Public outcry
The appointment has triggered a wave of reactions across the political spectrum:
Opposition Parties: The Indian National congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have vehemently condemned the appointment, calling for a thorough investigation and demanding the MP’s son’s suspension pending the outcome.
BJP’s Response: The BJP has maintained a cautious stance, stating that the appointment was made based on merit and that the allegations are being investigated independently. They emphasize the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
Women’s Rights groups: Several women’s rights organizations have expressed outrage, arguing that the appointment sends a hazardous message and undermines efforts to combat harassment and violence against women. They are demanding a clear and impartial inquiry.
Social Media Response: The issue has gained notable traction on social media platforms, with hashtags related to the case trending nationally. public sentiment appears largely critical of the appointment.
Legal Implications & Potential Consequences
The situation presents several legal complexities:
Conflict of Interest: The appointment raises a clear conflict of interest, potentially compromising the impartiality of the law officer in any future legal matters involving the MP or their family.
Due process: Critics argue that the appointment disregards the principles of due process and natural justice,as it appears to have been made despite the pending investigation.
Impact on Investigation: The appointment could potentially influence the ongoing investigation, creating a perception of bias and hindering a fair and impartial outcome.
Potential Charges: Depending on the evidence presented, the accused could face charges under various sections of the IPC related to stalking, harassment, and intimidation.
Haryana’s Gender ratio & Context
Haryana, while economically progressive [1], has historically struggled with a skewed sex ratio.This context adds another layer of concern to the allegations. The state’s social fabric and the safety of women are already subjects of ongoing debate, and this case risks exacerbating existing anxieties. Addressing gender inequality and ensuring the safety and dignity of women remain critical challenges for the state government.
