Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi received a legal setback from the Bombay High Court. The court rejected his plea seeking cancellation of a criminal defamation complaint linked to remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The case relates to Rahul Gandhi’s alleged use of phrases like “commander-in-thief” and “leader of thieves” during a 2018 Rajasthan rally. Rahul had challenged the summons issued by the magistrate court before the High Court.
Court Rejects Rahul Gandhi’s Argument
Rahul Gandhi argued that the complaint did not qualify for hearing. He claimed that his speech did not mention any person’s name directly.
Additionally, he stated that he did not target any identifiable individual or specific group during the speech. However, the High Court did not accept his argument.
The court observed that the BJP functions as a national political party. Therefore, the complaint against Rahul Gandhi could continue.
BJP Worker Filed The Defamation Complaint
BJP worker Mahesh Shrisrimal filed the complaint against Rahul Gandhi. He claimed that the Congress leader’s statements harmed the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Furthermore, he alleged that the remarks also damaged the reputation of the Bharatiya Janata Party and its workers. After the High Court order, the criminal defamation proceedings in the lower court will continue.
Another Defamation Case Pending In Bhiwandi
Rahul Gandhi faces another legal challenge in Maharashtra’s Thane district. A criminal defamation case is also pending before the Bhiwandi court.
RSS worker Rajesh Kunte filed this separate case against Rahul Gandhi. The complaint relates to an alleged statement made during the 2014 election campaign.
The complaint claims Rahul alleged that RSS had a role in Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination. Rajesh Kunte stated that the remark damaged the organisation’s reputation.
Meanwhile, the Bhiwandi court continues hearing the matter. These cases have increased Rahul Gandhi’s legal and political challenges.
