Rahul Gandhi Faces Non-Bailable Warrant in Defamation Case
A non-bailable warrant has been issued against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by the MP-MLA Court in Chaibasa, Jharkhand, in a 2018 defamation case. The court has mandated his personal appearance on June 26, 2025, rejecting his plea for exemption, escalating legal scrutiny on the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.
Defamation Case Origins
The case stems from remarks allegedly made by Gandhi during a 2018 Congress plenary session, targeting then-BJP President Amit Shah. BJP worker Pratap Katiyar filed a defamation petition, claiming Gandhi’s statement, implying a person accused in a murder case could lead the BJP, maligned the party’s reputation.
Legal Proceedings Timeline
Filed on July 9, 2018, in Chaibasa’s Chief Judicial Magistrate Court, the case was transferred to Ranchi’s MP-MLA Court in February 2020, then back to Chaibasa. Despite multiple summons, Gandhi’s non-appearance prompted the issuance of a bailable warrant in April 2022, followed by the recent non-bailable warrant.
Court Rejects Exemptions
Gandhi’s legal team sought a stay on the bailable warrant, which the Jharkhand High Court dismissed on March 20, 2024. The Chaibasa court also rejected a subsequent plea for exemption from personal appearance, reinforcing the directive for Gandhi to appear in person on June 26, 2025.
Alleged Remarks and Implications
The contentious statement attributed to Gandhi suggested that the BJP’s leadership selection disregarded serious criminal allegations, specifically referencing Shah. Katiyar’s petition argues this defamed BJP workers collectively, prompting the ongoing legal action.
Non-Compliance with Summons
Despite repeated court summons, Gandhi has not attended hearings, leading to escalating judicial measures. The transition from a bailable to a non-bailable warrant underscores the court’s insistence on his physical presence to address the charges.
Political Context
As the Leader of the Opposition and Wayanad MP, Gandhi’s legal challenges could influence public perception and political dynamics. The case, rooted in political rivalry, highlights tensions between the Congress and BJP, potentially impacting Gandhi’s public engagements.
Judicial Developments
The Chaibasa court’s firm stance, backed by the Jharkhand High Court’s rulings, signals a rigorous approach to defamation cases involving high-profile figures. The non-bailable warrant marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings against Gandhi.
Next Steps
Gandhi’s mandated appearance on June 26, 2025, will be a critical juncture in the case, potentially shaping the trajectory of the defamation proceedings. Non-compliance could lead to further legal repercussions, intensifying scrutiny on the Congress leader.