Vyapam scam case: HC grants stay on FIR against MP governor

In a relief to Madhya Pradesh Governor Ramnaresh Yadav in the forest guard recruitment case, the high court here on Friday stayed the FIR filed by Special Task Force (STF) against him.

A two-judge bench of Chief Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanvilkar and Justice Rohit Arya, however, reserved the full order.

A plea had been filed by the governor challenging the STF's FIR in the Vyapam scam case. The plea, citing Article 361(2) and (3) of the Indian Constitution, contended that neither any criminal proceedings can be initiated against the president and governor nor can they be arrested.

Following a hearing held on Monday, the Madhya Pradesh High Court bench had reserved its order till April 17.

Counsel for petitioner said the bench while reserving its detailed order issued a stay order on the STF's FIR. The bench in its order said the constitutional right of the governor should not be compromised.

The STF in its FIR has alleged the governor's complicity in the forest guard recruitment exam conducted by the Madhya Pradesh Professional Examination Board (MPPEB) or the Madhya Pradesh Vyavsayik Pareeksha Mandal (Vyapam).