Rahul Gandhi Defamation Case Postponed: Hearing Delayed Until December 6th

New Delhi, November 25, 2023 – In a developing story that’s capturing attention across India, the defamation case filed against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by an RSS worker has been adjourned until December 6th. This latest development, reported directly from the Thane court in Maharashtra, adds another layer to a legal battle stemming from remarks made over a decade ago. For those following Google News, this is a key update in a case with significant political implications.

Details of the Adjournment and Key Requests

The case, originally scheduled for a hearing on Saturday, saw a request for postponement granted by the court. Rahul Gandhi’s legal team, led by Narayan Iyer, cited unavailability as the reason for seeking the adjournment. Prior to this, complainant Rajesh Kunte’s lawyer, Prabodh Jaywant, had filed an application requesting permission to interrogate Ashok Saikar, the inspector from Nizampura police station, who previously investigated the matter and submitted a report to the court. The court had previously directed the Nizampura police to investigate the allegations.

The Core of the Allegation: A 2014 Rally and Historical Claims

The defamation case originates from a statement allegedly made by Rahul Gandhi during an election rally near Bhiwandi on March 6, 2014. Kunte alleges that Gandhi falsely claimed RSS members were responsible for the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. This accusation strikes at the heart of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) ideology and historical narrative. The RSS has consistently maintained its innocence in the assassination, pointing to the findings of various inquiries and the conviction of Nathuram Godse, who acted independently.

Understanding Defamation Law in India: A Quick Guide

Defamation in India, under both civil and criminal law, involves making false statements that harm the reputation of an individual or organization. Criminal defamation, as invoked in this case, is a cognizable offense, meaning the police can investigate without a warrant. However, the threshold for conviction is high, requiring proof of malicious intent and demonstrable harm to reputation. The legal proceedings often involve extensive examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and interpretations of the alleged defamatory statement within its context. This case highlights the complexities of balancing freedom of speech with the protection of reputation in a democratic society.

The RSS and Congress: A History of Political Tension

The relationship between the RSS and the Indian National Congress has been historically fraught with tension. The RSS, a Hindu nationalist organization founded in 1925, has often been critical of the Congress’s secular policies. Conversely, the Congress has accused the RSS of promoting divisive ideologies and being linked to instances of communal violence. This defamation case is just the latest manifestation of this long-standing political rivalry, and its outcome could have broader implications for the political landscape.

As the case progresses, archyde.com will continue to provide up-to-the-minute coverage and insightful analysis. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and explore our politics section for more in-depth reporting on Indian current events. We’re committed to delivering breaking news with a focus on clarity and context, ensuring you stay informed.

Source: Digital Desk, New Delhi