In a major legal development in Mumbai’s political circles, a Sessions Court has acquitted Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut in a criminal defamation case filed by Medha Somaiya, wife of BJP leader Kirit Somaiya. The verdict was delivered on Thursday after the court had earlier reserved its order in Raut’s appeal challenging his previous conviction.
With this ruling, Raut has been cleared of the charges and the earlier punishment imposed by a Magistrate’s Court has been set aside.
Appeal Succeeds After Earlier Conviction
The case traces back to a Magistrate Court order in September last year, when Raut was found guilty of criminal defamation. At that time, he was sentenced to 15 days of simple imprisonment and fined Rs 25,000. However, the sentence was stayed soon after he approached the Sessions Court in appeal.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the Special Sessions Court has now overturned the conviction, granting complete relief to the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader.
What Triggered the Legal Battle
The dispute began after Raut made public allegations claiming that Medha Somaiya was linked to an alleged Rs 100 crore scam related to the construction of public toilets under the Mira-Bhayander Municipal Corporation. The statements were made during media interactions and quickly sparked controversy.
Medha Somaiya strongly denied the allegations and termed them false and defamatory. She approached the court asserting that the claims had damaged her reputation and that of her family. Before initiating court proceedings, a complaint was also filed at Mulund Police Station.
In her submissions, she maintained that no financial irregularity had occurred and insisted that the accusations were baseless.
Raut’s Defence in Court
Throughout the proceedings, Raut argued that his remarks were based on documents and information available at the time. He maintained that he had merely raised questions about alleged irregularities in a public project and pointed out that the issue had also been discussed in the Maharashtra Assembly.
His legal team contended that the statements fell within the scope of public discourse and political accountability, rather than constituting criminal defamation.
Political Implications in Maharashtra
The case attracted attention due to the political rivalry between leaders of Shiv Sena (UBT) and the BJP in Maharashtra. With the Sessions Court setting aside the conviction, the judgment is being viewed as a significant legal and political win for Raut.
The acquittal brings temporary closure to a high-profile dispute that had intensified tensions between leaders of the two parties. However, the broader political debate surrounding allegations and counter-allegations in Maharashtra’s public life is likely to continue.
