Congress leader appears via video conferencing; next hearing scheduled for February 18.
Pune, January 11: A special MP MLA Court in Pune granted bail to Congress leader and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi on Friday in connection with the defamation case filed against him by Satyaki Savarkar, the grandnephew of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (VD Savarkar).
Rahul Gandhi appeared before the court via video conferencing, a move contested by the complainant's counsel. The court, however, allowed the appearance under special circumstances. The next hearing has been scheduled for February 18.
Case Background
The defamation case stems from remarks made by Rahul Gandhi during a gathering in London on March 5, 2023. Satyaki Savarkar alleged that Gandhi made false and damaging statements about Savarkar, aiming to tarnish his reputation and causing mental distress to his family.
In his complaint, Satyaki Savarkar cited Gandhi's alleged remarks, which claimed that VD Savarkar had written about enjoying beating a Muslim man alongside his friends. Savarkar labeled the statement as defamatory and factually incorrect, emphasizing that the incident was imaginary.
In April 2023, Satyaki Savarkar stated to ANI:
"Rahul Gandhi’s remarks about Veer Savarkar beating a Muslim person are an insult because the incident is imaginary. We've also heard false claims about petitions and pensions being raised. These statements compelled us to approach the court."
Court Proceedings
During Friday’s hearing, Advocate Sangram Kolhatkar, representing Satyaki Savarkar, objected to Gandhi's virtual appearance, arguing that such a provision is not commonly used for the accused. Despite the objection, the court permitted Gandhi’s virtual appearance and subsequently granted him bail.
"Rahul Gandhi appeared via video conferencing to furnish bail. We objected to this, but the court granted permission under the circumstances," said Advocate Kolhatkar.
Next Steps
The court has set February 18 as the date for the next hearing. The case continues to draw significant political attention due to the legacy of VD Savarkar and the high-profile stature of Rahul Gandhi.
This legal battle is one among many controversies surrounding Gandhi’s remarks on historical figures, which often spark debates in political and public domains.
