A non-bailable warrant has been issued against Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in a 2018 defamation case related to comments about Amit Shah. The case highlights ongoing legal troubles and political tensions between the Congress Party and BJP in India.

Non-Bailable Warrant Issued Against Rahul Gandhi in Defamation Case

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi is facing fresh legal trouble after a non-bailable warrant was issued against him in a long-standing defamation case. The MP-MLA court in Chaibasa, Jharkhand has ordered Gandhi to appear in person on June 26, 2025. His request for exemption from personal appearance was denied by the court.

The Origin of the Defamation Case

The case stems from a remark made by Gandhi during the 2018 Congress plenary session, where he criticized then BJP President Amit Shah. Gandhi allegedly stated that even a person facing “charges of murder” could become the head of the BJP.

This statement triggered a complaint from BJP leader Pratap Katiyar, who argued that Gandhi’s comments defamed all BJP workers.

Legal Journey: From CJM Court to MP-MLA Court

On July 9, 2018, Katiyar filed a defamation suit in the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court in Chaibasa. In February 2020, the case was transferred to the MP-MLA court in Ranchi following an order from the Jharkhand High Court.

Later, the case was returned to the Chaibasa MP-MLA court. The magistrate took cognizance and summoned Gandhi, who also serves as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

Repeated Absences and Escalation of Legal Action

Despite multiple court summons, Gandhi did not appear. Initially, a bailable warrant was issued. Gandhi appealed to the Jharkhand High Court to stay the warrant, but his plea was disposed of on March 20, 2024.

As the Member of Parliament from Raebareli, Gandhi filed another request for exemption from personal appearance — which was also rejected.

Court Takes Firm Stand with Non-Bailable Warrant

The special MP-MLA court has now taken a stricter stance, issuing a non-bailable warrant against Rahul Gandhi. This move underlines the seriousness of the court’s expectations regarding personal appearances in high-profile political defamation cases.

Conclusion

This case adds to the growing list of legal hurdles for Rahul Gandhi and underscores the rising political friction between the Congress and BJP. With the next hearing scheduled for June 26, all eyes will be on whether Gandhi complies with the court order.