Non-Bailable Warrant Issued Against Rahul Gandhi by Chaibasa Court
Court Issues Non-Bailable Warrant
The Chaibasa Court in Jharkhand has issued a non-bailable warrant against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. He faces allegations of making false statements against the BJP. This case dates back to 2018 when BJP leader Pratap Kumar Katiyar filed a complaint on July 9 before the Chief Judicial Magistrate in Chaibasa, claiming that Rahul Gandhi's remarks harmed the reputation of the BJP.
Legal Proceedings and Court Actions
Subsequently, on February 20, 2020, the High Court directed that the case be transferred to the special MP-MLA court in Ranchi. Later, it was moved to the special MP-MLA court in Chaibasa as per another High Court order. The Chaibasa Court took cognizance of the matter and summoned Rahul Gandhi. Despite receiving the summons, he failed to appear in court. Consequently, the court issued a bailable warrant, which was also ignored, leading to the issuance of a non-bailable warrant.
Attempts to Cancel the Warrant
Rahul Gandhi filed a petition in the High Court to annul this warrant (WP CR No. 230, 2024), but the court dismissed it on March 20, 2024. Following this, he applied for exemption under Section 205 of the CrPC in the Chaibasa Court, which was also rejected. With the non-bailable warrant now in place, further actions against him may intensify.
Background of the Case
The controversy traces back to March 28, 2018, when Rahul Gandhi delivered a speech at a Congress convention criticizing the BJP. This speech prompted BJP leader Pratap Kumar to file a defamation suit against him in the Chaibasa CJM Court on July 9, 2018. The court, after hearing the case, issued a non-bailable warrant, mandating Rahul's personal appearance.
Political Reactions and Implications
This development has stirred significant political discourse. The BJP claims that Rahul Gandhi's statements have tarnished the party's image, while Congress labels it a political conspiracy. Local residents and political analysts are closely monitoring the situation. Following the court's decision, it remains to be seen what steps Rahul Gandhi will take next. The police have been instructed to enforce the warrant, igniting discussions in Chaibasa as the public awaits the next chapter in this unfolding story.