Pune Court Summons Rahul Gandhi Over Savarkar Remarks; Supreme Court Mentions Indira Gandhi's Praise
Rahul Gandhi: A Pune court has summoned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a defamation case related to his comments on freedom fighter Veer Savarkar. The court has asked Gandhi to appear on May 9th. The case stems from controversial remarks Gandhi made about Savarkar during a recent visit to London.
What did Rahul Gandhi say?
Gandhi commented on Savarkar and his associates, stating, “They (Savarkar and his associates) beat a Muslim and were happy. If five people are beating one person and someone is happy, it’s cowardice.” This statement led to a defamation case filed by Savarkar's relatives.
Supreme Court Warns Rahul Gandhi
The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to Rahul Gandhi. The court stated that if he continues making such controversial remarks against freedom fighters, he will face consequences. The court also questioned Gandhi's awareness of a letter written by his grandmother, Indira Gandhi, praising Savarkar.
Court Questions Rahul Gandhi's Awareness of Freedom Fighters
Supreme Court Justice Dipankar Datta questioned Gandhi's lawyer, asking, "Does your client know that Mahatma Gandhi used the words 'Your Obedient Servant' in a letter to the Viceroy?" He also stated that such statements should not be made without understanding the history of freedom fighters.
Court Issues Strong Warning to Rahul Gandhi
Justice Datta noted that Savarkar is revered in Maharashtra and clarified, "If such statements are made in the future, we will take suo moto cognizance, and there will be no question of leniency. We will not allow you to speak about freedom fighters." The court assured Gandhi that if he refrains from making such statements in the future, they are prepared to halt proceedings in the Lucknow court regarding the comments on Savarkar.
