Pune, August 13 – Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday told a Pune court that he faces a threat to his life in connection with the Savarkar defamation case. Appearing before the MP/MLA special court, Gandhi alleged that those who filed the defamation complaint against him are descendants of Nathuram Godse and urged the court to ensure “preventive protection” for his safety and for a fair trial, calling it the state’s constitutional responsibility. The court will hear the matter next on September 10.
Gandhi stated that Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination was part of a well-planned conspiracy and that, given this family background, he fears harm or wrongful implication. He also cited recent political remarks — including his “Vote chor kursi chhod” slogan in Parliament on August 11 and presenting documents on alleged electoral malpractices — that have angered his political opponents. He reiterated that “a true Hindu never resorts to violence or spreads hatred” and accused the BJP of promoting both, a statement that BJP leaders condemned as an insult to the Hindu community.
The defamation case, filed by Savarkar’s grandson Satyaki Savarkar, stems from Gandhi’s remarks during his Bharat Jodo Yatra in Akola, Maharashtra, in November 2022, where he displayed a letter allegedly written by V.D. Savarkar to the British. Gandhi claimed Savarkar sought clemency out of fear and betrayed leaders like Gandhi and Patel. The case also references Gandhi’s 2023 speech in London, in which he alleged Savarkar wrote about assaulting a Muslim man.
The Supreme Court in April 2024 had warned Gandhi against making “irresponsible” statements about freedom fighters, halting trial court summons but cautioning that further derogatory remarks could invite suo motu action. Separately, a Lucknow advocate filed another defamation complaint in June 2023 over Gandhi’s “British servant” and “pensioner” comments about Savarkar.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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