The Supreme Court has stayed the conviction of Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi in a criminal defamation case against him over his ‘Modi surname’ remark. However, the court maintained that his remarks were not in good taste, especially for a person in public life. The trial judge had awarded the maximum sentence of two years in the case, prompting the Supreme Court to note that a day less would not have attracted disqualification.
Previously, Rahul Gandhi had argued that his conviction by a magistrate’s court in the 2019 defamation case was erroneous and that he was treated harshly due to his status as an MP. The Supreme Court agreed that his utterances were not in good taste, but emphasized the ramifications of disqualification, stating that it not only affects the individual’s rights but also those of the electorate.
Rahul Gandhi’s lawyer argued that this was his last chance for acquittal, enabling him to attend Parliament and contest elections. The lawyer further noted that Mr. Gandhi had already lost two Parliament sessions due to his conviction and that the High Court had reserved its judgement for 66 days.
During the hearing, Rahul Gandhi’s lawyer also contended that the complainant, Purnesh Modi, had changed his original surname and that none of the persons named by Mr. Gandhi during his speech had sued him. The Supreme Court acknowledged that the trial court had referred to Mr. Gandhi’s criminal antecedents, but Rahul Gandhi’s lawyer pointed out that he had no convictions despite several cases being filed against him.
The Supreme Court’s decision to stay Rahul Gandhi’s conviction allows him to participate in Parliament and subsequent sessions. However, the court emphasized that Mr. Gandhi should have been more careful in his speeches, considering his public position. The case highlights the delicate balance between freedom of speech and the consequences it may have for public figures, especially in defamation cases.
Now, Rahul Gandhi has a chance for acquittal, and this decision enables him to fulfill his duties as a Member of Parliament and continue participating in the political process.
