Sultanpur: A special MP-MLA court in Sultanpur has acquitted Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, in a criminal defamation case filed over his remarks about Amit Shah, who was the BJP president in 2018. Gandhi was present in court when the verdict was pronounced. The court reportedly held that his remarks did not amount to defamation.
How the Case Began
- The case dates back to the 2018 Karnataka Assembly election campaign. Rahul Gandhi made remarks about Amit Shah during a political event in Bengaluru, referring to Shah as a person accused in a murder case.
- The remarks were linked to the 2005 Sohrabuddin Sheikh encounter case. Shah had been discharged by a special CBI court in 2014.
- BJP leader Vijay Mishra, a former chairman of the Sultanpur District Cooperative Bank, filed the criminal defamation complaint against Gandhi on August 4, 2018. The complainant alleged that Gandhi’s remarks were objectionable and damaged Shah’s reputation.
Rahul Gandhi’s Defence
- During the proceedings, Gandhi disputed the allegations and maintained that his remarks had been presented out of context. His defence argued that the comments were made in good faith and were not intended to defame anyone.
- The complainant’s side argued that the remarks were defamatory and sought Gandhi’s conviction. The court heard arguments from both sides before delivering its verdict on October 26, 2026.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
- The case continued for several years, with hearings, witness statements and legal applications. Gandhi appeared before the court in earlier proceedings and secured bail in February 2024.
- The court ultimately acquitted him in the case. The verdict concludes the trial at this court level, although any further legal action would depend on the applicable legal process and decisions by the parties.
Political and Legal Significance
- The ruling is a significant legal development for Rahul Gandhi, who leads the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. The case arose from political remarks made during an election campaign and remained pending for approximately eight years.
- The acquittal concerns this specific defamation case. It should not be interpreted as a ruling on every allegation or legal matter involving either Gandhi or Amit Shah.
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