Pune: Court Grants Rahul Gandhi Extension To Appear In Defamation Case Over Remarks On Savarkar
Pune: Court Grants Rahul Gandhi Extension To Appear In Defamation Case Over Remarks On Savarkar
Pune: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been granted an extension by the court until January 10, 2025, to appear in a defamation case related to his allegedly derogatory remarks about freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The extension was sought due to Gandhi’s commitments to the ongoing parliamentary session.
The application for an extension was filed by Gandhi’s lawyer, Advocate Milind Pawar, citing his responsibilities as a Member of Parliament (MP) and leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha. Magistrate Amol Shinde of the First Class Judicial Court approved the request after reviewing the circumstances.
Background of the Case
Gandhi had been served a summons, which had previously been misdirected to Patiala House Court instead of Pune’s Special Court. Once redirected, a new summons was issued, prompting his legal team to seek more time for his court appearance.
Advocate Pawar explained that Gandhi was occupied with election campaigns and the parliamentary session, which included discussions on key legislative matters. The court acknowledged these factors and granted the extension.
Counterclaims and Additional Requests
However, Advocate Sangram Kolhatkar, representing Satyaaki Savarkar, the grandson of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, petitioned the court for stricter measures. He requested that a non-bailable warrant be issued against Gandhi for failing to appear despite receiving the summons. Kolhatkar also urged the court to bar Gandhi from making any further contentious statements about Savarkar until the case is resolved.
The court instructed Gandhi’s legal team to ensure no further derogatory remarks were made and granted the extension. The next hearing is scheduled for January 10, 2025.
Remarks from Legal Representatives
Advocate Pawar noted that Gandhi’s parliamentary obligations made his court appearance challenging. He appreciated the court’s understanding in providing more time to comply with the summons. Meanwhile, Kolhatkar emphasized the need for Gandhi to exercise caution in his public statements regarding Savarkar.
The case continues to draw attention, reflecting the sensitive nature of the remarks and their impact on political and historical discourse.
