The defamation hearing against Congress leader and Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi was deferred on Saturday at the MP-MLA special court in Chaibasa. The case pertains to an alleged objectionable remark Gandhi made about BJP leader Amit Shah during a 2018 public event.
Gandhi had filed a petition under Section 205 of the CrPC, seeking exemption from appearing in person during trial proceedings. The court was expected to deliver its order on October 4, but the hearing was postponed as the presiding judge was on leave. The next hearing has now been scheduled for October 9.
Advocate Subhash Chandra Mishra, representing Rahul Gandhi, confirmed that arguments from both sides concluded on September 22 and the court had reserved its order. “The order was expected today, but due to the judge’s absence, the matter has been postponed to October 9,” he said.
The court’s decision will be significant: if Gandhi’s plea is accepted, he can continue his parliamentary and political work without frequent court appearances. If rejected, he will be required to attend all hearings in person.
Congress leaders argue that Gandhi’s national responsibilities make regular court appearances challenging. Conversely, prosecution lawyer Keshav Prasad Mahato stated, “The law applies equally, and Rahul Gandhi should appear regularly before the court.”
The case originates from March 28, 2018, when Gandhi allegedly made remarks about Amit Shah at a Congress event. BJP leader Pratap Katiyar filed the defamation case in the Chaibasa CJM court, which was later transferred to the MP-MLA special court. The October 9 hearing will determine whether Gandhi is exempted from personal appearances.