SC stays Rahul Gandhi’s conviction in defamation case, MP status restored
Today, the Supreme Court of India granted relief to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by staying his conviction in the defamation case filed by a BJP leader in 2019. The court also restored his status as a Member of Parliament (MP) and directed the trial court to hear his appeal on merits. The court expressed its displeasure over the trial court's decision to award the maximum sentence of two years imprisonment to Gandhi without giving adequate reasons.
The defamation case was filed by BJP leader and former MLA Purnesh Modi, after Gandhi made a speech at an election rally in Gujarat, where he said that all thieves have the surname Modi. Gandhi was referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, fugitive businessman Nirav Modi and former IPL chairman Lalit Modi. The trial court in Surat found Gandhi guilty of defaming the Prime Minister and his community and sentenced him to two years jail in March 2023.
This stay order has come as a major relief for him and his party, as he can now resume his parliamentary duties and campaign for the upcoming state elections.
Report by Shaurya
Graphics by Devika Mandaar
Comments