New Delhi: The Allahabad High Court has granted bail to Samajwadi Party MLA Zahid Baig, his wife Seema Baig, and son Zaeem Baig, in connection with a case involving the alleged suicide of a minor domestic worker. The court’s decision brings significant relief to the legislator from the Bhadohi Assembly constituency and his family, reported the Dawat News.
The case dates back to September 9, 2024, when a 14-year-old domestic worker was found dead at the residence of MLA Zahid Baig in Bhadohi. Following the incident, police registered an FIR on September 14 based on a complaint by Sub-Inspector Hardatt Pandey. The complaint accused Zahid Baig, his wife Seema Baig, and their son Zaeem Baig of forcing the minor into labor and abetting her suicide.
Zaeem Baig was the first to be arrested, followed by Zahid Baig, who surrendered to the court shortly afterward. Meanwhile, Seema Baig was declared absconding. She had filed a pre-arrest bail plea, but in her absence, her property was confiscated by the police on November 18 under court orders.
The bail was granted by a single bench of Justice Sanjay Kumar Singh, who noted that the investigation is still underway and prolonged incarceration of the accused is unwarranted at this stage, especially in a case of alleged suicide.
Zahid Baig and Zaeem Baig were being held at Naini Central Jail in Allahabad. The court’s ruling paves the way for their release. The decision also ends the fugitive status of Seema Baig, who had remained underground for months to avoid arrest.
Zahid Baig is considered an influential leader in the Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh and is known for his proximity to Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav.
The case has drawn significant public and media attention due to its sensitive nature involving child labor and suicide. As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes remain on the progress of the investigation and the justice system’s handling of the matter.