In a significant development in the ongoing defamation case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition appeared personally before the MP/MLA court in Sultanpur on Friday. The case stems from alleged derogatory remarks made against Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a 2018 press conference in Karnataka.
The court proceedings lasted approximately 20 minutes, during which Gandhi’s statement was recorded. The next hearing has been scheduled for March 9. Speaking to reporters afterward, Gandhi asserted that the case was filed against him with political malice, aimed at targeting his political activities.
Arriving from Lucknow Airport via road, Gandhi reached the civil court premises right on time, adhering to the court’s final directive for personal appearance. Heavy security was deployed throughout, with a dog squad conducting thorough checks beforehand. An Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), four Circle Officers (COs), and substantial police forces ensured airtight arrangements.
Outside the court, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai and Rajya Sabha MP Pramod Tiwari were present, terming the appearance a routine judicial process. They expressed confidence in the judiciary delivering fair justice. Earlier, at Lucknow Airport, party workers gave Gandhi a rousing welcome before his convoy proceeded through Mohanlalganj and Raebareli to Sultanpur.
Congress leader Aradhana Mishra ‘Mona’ emphasized that Gandhi was complying with legal procedures, and the party has full faith in the judicial system. Tiwari accused the BJP of attempting to trap Gandhi in false cases to hinder his political momentum.
The defamation complaint was originally filed by Vijay Mishra, former chairman of the district cooperative bank and a BJP leader, over remarks Gandhi allegedly made calling Shah a ‘tattoo’ or criminal. Gandhi had previously appeared on July 26, 2024, but missed subsequent dates, prompting the court to mandate his presence on February 20.
This appearance underscores the intensifying legal battles faced by key opposition figures ahead of crucial political events, with both sides closely watching the unfolding proceedings.