A Bengaluru court on Saturday directed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to appear in person on June 7 in connection with a defamation case filed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
“It is made clear that the Accused No.4 shall appear before this court on the next date of hearing without fail. For appearance of Accused No.4, call on 07.06.2024,” the special court ordered, exempting Gandhi from appearing today.
Gandhi’s counsel requested exemption from today’s appearance due to his involvement in an INDIA alliance meeting. The court granted this request but emphasized that he must be present on June 7.
The defamation case, initiated by BJP leader Keshav Prasad, involves Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, and Rahul Gandhi. The case concerns Congress advertisements and campaign slogans during the lead-up to the 2023 Karnataka assembly elections, which accused the then-ruling BJP of demanding up to 40 percent commission or bribes from contractors for public works.
The BJP’s complaint alleges that Congress leaders spread false advertisements targeting party members, including then Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai.
Earlier today, the 42nd Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate granted bail to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, requiring them to furnish bail bonds of ₹5,000 each.
Since Gandhi did not appear in court, his plea will be heard on June 7.
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