Pune: A criminal defamation case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, stemming from his defamatory remarks about freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, will now be heard in a special 'MP-MLA' court.

The case was moved to this newly established court by an order from Principal District Judge Mahendra Mahajan.

The special court, presided over by Judicial Magistrate (First Class) Amol Shinde, was set up following directives from the High Court to expedite cases involving Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).

This move ensures that criminal complaints against sitting and former district representatives are resolved more swiftly.

The case against Rahul Gandhi arises from a speech he delivered in London to a group of non-resident Indians, where he made defamatory remarks about Veer Savarkar.

The remarks prompted Satyaki Savarkar, the grandson of the freedom fighter, to file a defamation suit against the Congress leader. Earlier, the magistrate had ordered Gandhi to appear in court and provide his defense. The next hearing is scheduled for October 4, at which time Gandhi is expected to be present.

Legal Representation and Next Steps

Advocate Sangram Kolhatkar, representing Satyaki Savarkar, stated that the next hearing will be held in the special court, and Gandhi will receive a court summons prior to the date. Gandhi will be required to attend the court hearing on the assigned date.

Special MP-MLA Court: Purpose and Jurisdiction

The 'MP-MLA' court was established to handle criminal cases filed under the Indian Penal Code, the Criminal Procedure Code, and specific writ petitions against current or former MPs and MLAs. This ensures that such cases are fast-tracked.

The High Court issued a notification to this effect, leading to the formation of special courts across districts. Cases involving both sitting and former MPs and MLAs are adjudicated here.