Mumbai: Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi appeared before a court in Bhiwandi, Maharashtra, in connection with a defamation case filed by an RSS worker from the area.
The case relates to alleged defamatory remarks made by Gandhi in the past and has been under legal process for several years.The complaint alleges that Rahul Gandhi, during a speech in 2014, made remarks linking the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to the ideology behind Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, which the complainant claims harmed the organisation’s reputation.
Fresh Surety Submitted After Shivraj Patil’s Death
Speaking to the media, Gandhi’s lawyer Narayan Iyer said the court appearance was required to submit a fresh surety. He explained that the earlier surety, former Union Minister Shivraj Patil, passed away, making it necessary to complete the procedure again.
Maharashtra Congress Chief Present in Court
Harshwardhan Sapkal, President of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, was also present in court along with Rahul Gandhi to complete the formalities.
Congress Expresses Faith in Judiciary
The advocate said the Congress party has full confidence in the judicial system. He stated that the party believes the truth will emerge during the course of the trial.
Iyer added that Rahul Gandhi has decided to contest the case fully and present all relevant facts and evidence before the court at the appropriate stage.
Next Hearing Scheduled in March
According to the advocate, the court has directed that the next hearing in the defamation case will take place in March. He clarified that the upcoming hearing will focus on further legal proceedings as decided by the court.
