Rahul Gandhi to Appear in Special Court for Defamation Case Verdict

Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to appear in a special MP/MLA court in Sultanpur on October 26 for a verdict in a defamation case stemming from comments made against Amit Shah in 2018. The case, initiated by a BJP leader, alleges that Gandhi's remarks during a press conference hurt party sentiments. The court will announce its decision, and if evidence is found against him, he could face up to two years in prison. Gandhi has been instructed to attend the court in person on the day of the ruling.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 25, 2026, 16:17 IST

Court Appearance Scheduled for Rahul Gandhi

Sultanpur: On Monday, October 26, Congress leader and Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi is expected to appear at a special MP/MLA court in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The court is set to announce its final ruling in a defamation case dating back to 2018.

This case pertains to alleged derogatory remarks made by Rahul Gandhi against Amit Shah, the then BJP national president, during a press conference in Bengaluru. The complaint was filed by Vijay Mishra, the former district vice president of the BJP, on August 4, 2018.

Mishra claimed that the accusations made by Gandhi during the election campaign hurt the sentiments of party workers. The court had summoned Rahul Gandhi on November 27, 2023, leading to his appearance and subsequent bail.

According to the complainant's lawyer, Santosh Kumar Pandey, the hearing process has concluded, and Special Judge Shubham Verma will deliver the verdict on Monday. If sufficient evidence is found against the accused, the maximum penalty could be up to two years. The court has instructed Rahul Gandhi to be present in person on the day of the verdict.