New Delhi: Kangana’s Tweet Trouble: SC Rejects Plea
On September 12, 2025, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition by Bollywood actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut to quash a defamation case tied to her 2021 remarks on the farmers’ protests. The court’s sharp rebuke highlighted that her social media post was more than a mere retweet, intensifying the legal scrutiny she faces. This ruling follows the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s earlier refusal to dismiss the case, marking a significant setback for Ranaut.
The Controversial Post
The defamation case stems from a 2021 tweet where Ranaut allegedly made derogatory remarks about Mahinder Kaur, a 73-year-old farmer from Punjab’s Bathinda district. Ranaut’s post, which linked Kaur to the Shaheen Bagh protests, was deemed defamatory by Kaur, who claimed it damaged her reputation among peers.
The Supreme Court noted that Ranaut’s comments added “spice” to the original retweet, implying intent beyond simple sharing, as per remarks by Justice Sandeep Mehta.
Court’s Firm Stance
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta heard Ranaut’s Special Leave Petition challenging the High Court’s decision. The court declined to delve into the tweet’s content, cautioning that such discussions could prejudice the ongoing trial.
The justices advised Ranaut’s counsel to withdraw the petition, which was promptly done, leaving her to pursue remedies in the trial court.
Background of the Case
Filed by Mahinder Kaur in January 2021, the complaint accuses Ranaut of falsely identifying her as a paid protester, referencing the Shaheen Bagh “dadi” featured in Time magazine. The Bathinda court issued summons in February 2022 under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code, prompting Ranaut’s legal challenges.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court had previously ruled that Ranaut failed to prove her remarks were made in good faith, upholding the defamation proceedings.
Implications for Ranaut
The Supreme Court’s decision reinforces the gravity of public statements by high-profile figures, especially on sensitive issues like the farmers’ protests. Ranaut, a vocal BJP MP, now faces continued legal proceedings in Bathinda, with potential ramifications for her public image.