Savarkar Case: Rahul Gandhi Fined Rs 200 For Skipping Court, Ordered To Be Appear On April 14

Pune Court has granted Rahul Gandhi permanent exemption in defamation case over remarks on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Gandhi’s counsel earlier moved an application before the court saying there could be a threat to Gandhi’s life especially when Pune was a hometown of Nathuram Godse and the leader’s father and grandfather were assassinated by “bad elements” of the society.

Gandhi had made objectionable remarks against Hindutva icon Savarkar during his speech in London in March 2023. A case was registered against him in this regard. Gandhi earlier appeared before the court through video conference and issued temporary bail on a surety bond of Rs 25000.

A complaint filed by Satyaki Savarkar, grandnephew of VD Savarkar, who alleged that the Congress leader made defamatory remarks at a programme in London. Judicial Magistrate (first class) and Special Judge for MP/MLA cases Milind Shinde in his order while granting the exemption said, accused shall not raise an objection before the court that the evidence in the matter was recorded in his absence. The court also asked counsel for Gandhi to remain present in every hearing.

Advocate Milind Pawar who represents the leader of the opposition in an undated application moved before the court under section 205 of Crpc and sought a permanent exemption of Gandhi from appearing before the court in Pune. The application mentions that Gandhi is holding the constitutional post as leader of opposition in Lok Sabha and is a senior leader of the Congress.