In a dramatic late-night development, rape accused BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar made a surprise appearance outside the Lucknow SSP's residence, triggering speculation that he might surrender, but left the place without handing himself over to the police.

"I came here to show to the media that I am not absconding, and I am very much in Lucknow. I am here, tell me what to do," a visibly unrepentant Sengar told reporters.

He said, "I am a disciplined BJP worker. I am innocent. I am being implicated."