The Surat court in Gujarat has found Congress leader Rahul Gandhi guilty in a defamation case and sentenced him to two years in jail, along with a fine of 15,000 rupees. The case, related to his statement ‘Why all thieves have Modi as their surname’, had been going on for four years. However, the court granted him bail and postponed the sentence for 30 days.
During the hearing, Rahul Gandhi presented his side and stated that his intention was not wrong while giving the statement. He claimed that he had raised his voice against corruption. Rahul also added that he did not say anything intentionally and that he should be punished if anyone has been harmed by his words.
After the punishment was announced, Rahul Gandhi responded by saying “Truth is my God”. The case had been brought against him by MLA and petitioner Purnesh Modi.
Outside the court, supporters of Purnesh Modi raised slogans of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Jai Shri Ram’. The defense counsel argued that the minimum punishment should be given since no one had been harmed by Rahul’s statement. However, the prosecutor’s lawyer argued that Rahul Gandhi, as an MP, had broken the law and should be given maximum punishment.
This verdict has sparked a debate about freedom of speech in India. Many people have expressed their opinions on social media, both in support of and against Rahul Gandhi.
this case highlights the importance of being careful with words in the public sphere. As public figures, leaders have a responsibility to choose their words carefully and not make statements that could harm others or incite violence.