Rahul Gandhi’s hearing in Chaibasa Court deferred, next date on October 9

The hearing in a defamation case against Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, could not take place on Saturday at the MP-MLA special court in Chaibasa. The case pertains to an alleged objectionable remark made by Gandhi about BJP leader Amit Shah during a 2018 public address.

Gandhi has filed a petition under Section 205 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), seeking exemption from personal appearance during trial proceedings. The court was scheduled to deliver its order on October 4, but the hearing was deferred as the presiding judge was on leave. The next date of hearing has been fixed for October 9.

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Advocate Subhash Chandra Mishra, appearing on behalf of Rahul Gandhi, said that arguments from both sides had concluded on September 22, after which the court had reserved its order. “The order was expected today, but due to the judge’s absence, the matter has been postponed to October 9,” Mishra said.

The court’s ruling on Gandhi’s plea holds significance. If his request for exemption is accepted, he would be free to continue his parliamentary and political engagements without disruption. However, if the plea is rejected, he would be required to appear in person for each hearing.

Congress leaders and supporters are closely watching the outcome. They argue that Rahul Gandhi’s national responsibilities make frequent court appearances difficult. On the other hand, prosecution lawyer Keshav Prasad Mahato said, “The law is equal for everyone, and Rahul Gandhi should also appear before the court regularly.”

The case dates back to March 28, 2018, when Rahul Gandhi allegedly made objectionable remarks about Amit Shah during a Congress event. Following this, BJP leader Pratap Katiyar filed a defamation case in the Chaibasa Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court, which was later transferred to the MP-MLA special court. The next hearing on October 9 will determine whether the court grants Gandhi relief from personal appearance or directs him to attend every proceeding.