Rahul Gandhi Granted Permanent Exemption in Savarkar Defamation Case

A Pune court approved the exemption citing Gandhi's Z-plus security status and his role as Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

The defamation case stems from Rahul Gandhi's remarks on Hindutva ideologue VD Savarkar during a 2023 speech in London.
The complaint was filed by Satyaki Savarkar, a relative of VD Savarkar, alleging the comments were defamatory.
Gandhi, who had previously secured bail, was granted permanent exemption from appearing in court due to security concerns and his parliamentary responsibilities.
The court emphasized that Gandhi's counsel must attend all hearings, and evidence can be recorded in his absence.
The exemption request highlighted Gandhi's Z-plus security status and potential law and order challenges if he appeared in person.