While hearing Gandhi’s petition, the Supreme Court issued a notice to the concerned parties and sought their responses within four weeks. The stay on the lower court trial will remain in effect for the time being following the Supreme Court’s order.
Supreme Court Seeks Response Within Four Weeks
The Supreme Court issued notices to the concerned parties on Rahul Gandhi’s petition, seeking their replies within four weeks. The defamation complaint alleges that Gandhi used objectionable language against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The alleged remarks led to a complaint being filed against the Congress leader.
A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Apresh Kumar Singh heard the matter and issued notices to the concerned parties. Following the order, the trial proceedings in the defamation case before the lower court have been stayed for the time being.
Case Linked to Alleged Remarks During 2018 Rafale Deal Controversy
The case stems from Rahul Gandhi’s alleged comments in 2018 regarding the Rafale fighter jet deal. According to the allegations, Gandhi targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi and used objectionable words against him.
During a speech in Amethi, Gandhi had said that he would prove that Modi was not a “watchman” but a “thief.” The remarks triggered considerable political activity, with the BJP strongly opposing Gandhi’s statement.
The Supreme Court’s intervention has temporarily halted the lower court proceedings while the parties are required to respond to the notice issued on Gandhi’s petition.
Rahul Gandhi to Host Tea Meeting for India Bloc MPs and Civil Society Members
Meanwhile, in Delhi, Rahul Gandhi has invited India Bloc MPs and members of civil society to his residence for tea today, following Monday’s march towards the Supreme Court.
Gandhi was accompanied by India Bloc leaders and workers during Monday’s march. His plan was to submit a memorandum to the Chief Justice of India. However, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant had told the media in the morning that he would not be able to meet Rahul Gandhi.
Opposition Demands Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar’s Resignation
Opposition leaders have also filed a petition in the Supreme Court in connection with the electoral issues they have been raising. The Congress and other opposition parties have been targeting the government and the Election Commission over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.
Opposition leaders maintain that safeguarding the integrity of voter lists and protecting voters’ rights are essential to the democratic system. They have also been demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
The Supreme Court’s interim order in Gandhi’s defamation case marks a significant development in the legal proceedings, while the opposition’s campaign over electoral roll revisions and its demands concerning the Election Commission continue alongside the political developments in Delhi.
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