#Surat Lok Sabha

[every-day-updates]

Inside Story: How BJP's Tactical Move Secured Victory in Surat

Have you ever wondered about the intricate strategies and behind-the-scenes actions that shape election outcomes? The recent events in Surat Lok Sabha constituency provide a fascinating glimpse into the political maneuvering that can alter the course of an election.

It all began with a seemingly routine objection raised by Dinesh Jodhani, the BJP candidate's agent, regarding the signatures on the nomination papers of Nilesh Kumbhani, the Congress nominee, and Suresh Padsala, a dummy candidate of the same party. Jodhani alleged that the signatures had been forged, setting off a chain of events that ultimately led to the declaration of BJP candidate Mukesh Dalal as the winner without contest.

What followed was a meticulously orchestrated sequence of actions. Affidavits disowning the signatures on Kumbhani and Padsala's nomination forms surfaced, duly notarized by a member of the Surat City BJP legal cell. Kiran Ghoghari, the legal cell member, clarified that he had assisted the proposers in disowning the signatures purely in a professional capacity, charging a fee higher than his usual rate.

The crux of the matter lay in the validity of the signatures. Kumbhani had submitted signatures of his relatives and associates as his proposers, but objections raised by the BJP agent led to a special hearing conducted by Saurabh Parghi, the District Election Officer and Collector of Surat. The proposers, who were initially reported missing, later surfaced and affirmed on camera that they had not signed the nomination forms.

Despite attempts by Kumbhani to argue discrepancies and even alleging the kidnapping of his proposers, the evidence presented by the BJP's legal team proved compelling enough for Parghi to reject the Congress nomination.

Interestingly, amidst the political drama, a photograph of Abdul Hamid Khan, a candidate who withdrew from the race, alongside Gujarat BJP chief CR Paatil circulated on social media. Khan clarified that his decision to withdraw was voluntary, devoid of any external pressure, and his interaction with Paatil was merely a customary photo-op.

The unfolding events in Surat underscore the intricate dynamics and tactical maneuvers that often determine electoral outcomes. Behind the scenes, legal scrutiny, strategic objections, and political alliances shape the narrative, ultimately influencing the course of democracy.

In the end, Surat was won not just by the declaration of a candidate as elected unopposed, but by the careful orchestration of legal procedures and political strategies, showcasing the power of meticulous planning in the realm of electoral politics.

[newzquest]

Rahul Gandhi "Tore" the 2013 Ordinance that could have saved him from disqualification.

Wish Rahul could have undo now..'Ordinance should be torn and thrown out' ''अध्यादेश को फाड़कर बाहर फेंक देना चाहिए': काश राहुल अब इसे पूर्ववत कर सकते थे, काश अध्यादेश ना फाड़ दिया होता ! कहते हैं वक्त की लाठी बे-आवाज़ होती है.. दर्द का एहसास बाद में पता

Wish Rahul could have undo now..‘Ordinance should be torn and thrown out’ ”अध्यादेश को फाड़कर बाहर फेंक देना चाहिए’: काश राहुल अब इसे पूर्ववत कर सकते थे, काश अध्यादेश ना फाड़ दिया होता ! कहते हैं वक्त की लाठी बे-आवाज़ होती है.. दर्द का एहसास बाद में पता लगता है. एक इक बात में सच्चाई है उस की लेकिन,अपने हरकतओ से मुकर जाने को जी चाहता है!! Rahul Gandhi was disqualified as a member of Parliament…

[sivavakkiyar]

On Monday, research conducted by a poll watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) revealed discrepancies in vote counts in the Lok Sabha elections conducted in the year 2024.

According to the report, titled “Discrepancies between the votes cast and the votes counted in the 2024 Lok Sabha election: Multiple Perspectives” there were problems in 362 parliamentary constituencies where 554,598 votes counted were less than the actual votes cast.

The report continued that in 176 constituencies, the total votes were counted 35,093 more than the actual votes. It aimed to highlight the differences between the votes recorded by electronic voting machines (EVMs) and the counts reported by the Election Commission of India (ECI) for the 2024 general elections.

The report has highlighted significant discrepancies in as many as 538 constituencies, except Amreli, Attingal, Lakshadweep, and Dadra Nagar Haveli and Daman Diu. Surat seat did not have any contest. “Hence the total discrepancies in 538 PCs are 5,89,691,” reads the report.

The ElCI has not given a reasonable explanation for announcing the results of the election before releasing final and accurate vote count data. Concerns are; disparities in votes credited based on EVM, increased voter turnout, non-declaration of the actual number of votes polled, unreasonable delay in releasing vote data, and data being pulled down from the ECI website, the ADR report read.

It also said that due to ECI’s failure to address these irregularities during the 2019 & 2024 Lok Sabha elections, voters have developed concerns. These apprehensions must be seriously addressed and put to rest,” it said.

“In order to uphold the voter’s confidence, it is necessary that the ECI should immediately disclose on its website scanned legible copies of Form 17C Part- I (Account of Votes Recorded) of all polling stations which contains the authenticated figures for votes polled, within 48hours of the close of polling,” the report read.

[atomxmedia]

Mallikarjun Kharge’s Vision for India: Development Over Divisiveness in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections

Mallikarjun Kharge, the Congress party president, is leading the charge in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, a pivotal contest for his party and the nation. After facing significant defeats in 2014 and 2019, where the Congress secured only 44 and 52 seats respectively, Kharge is determined to steer the party to victory. As the chairperson of the INDIA bloc, a coalition of opposition parties, Kharge believes that the upcoming elections are crucial for preserving the Constitution, democracy, and independent institutions in India. In this exclusive interview with Frontline, Kharge discusses the Congress’ strategy, the importance of the 2024 elections, and his criticisms of the BJP-led government.

The Significance of the 2024 Elections

Kharge emphasizes the transformative nature of the 2024 elections for both the Congress and the country. He is confident that the INDIA alliance will secure a majority to oust the BJP, which he accuses of being “power-drunk.” According to Kharge, this election is not only about changing the government but also about protecting the Constitution and democracy. He warns that the BJP and RSS leaders are aiming for a two-thirds majority to amend the Constitution, potentially undermining reservations for SCs, STs, and OBCs. This, he argues, makes the election critical for safeguarding these provisions.

Why Vote for Congress?

Kharge outlines the reasons why voters should choose the Congress party in the 2024 elections. He highlights the Congress manifesto, “Nyay Patra,” which details the party’s roadmap for national growth. He asserts that the electorate is disillusioned with the ten years of the Modi government, citing issues like unemployment, inflation, and declining incomes. Despite the BJP’s control over major media outlets, Kharge believes that the Congress has effectively voiced public dissatisfaction. He accuses Prime Minister Narendra Modi of lying and insists that the politics of development will triumph over communalism and divisiveness.

Addressing Disarray in Congress

Responding to criticisms about internal disarray, Kharge refutes claims of widespread desertions, attributing any withdrawals to threats and bribes from the BJP. He cites examples of electoral malpractice, such as in Surat and Indore, to illustrate how democracy is being undermined. He acknowledges that the party has faced challenges but notes that many members have remained loyal or returned. Kharge emphasizes the importance of identifying and excluding candidates with low commitment to the party’s ideology.

Rahul Gandhi’s Decision and Senior Leaders’ Roles

Kharge explains Rahul Gandhi’s choice not to contest from Amethi, highlighting the significant emotional connection the constituency has with the Gandhi family. He expresses confidence in the Congress candidate for Amethi, K.L. Sharma, supported by Priyanka Gandhi’s campaign efforts. Addressing the absence of some senior leaders in the electoral race, Kharge clarifies that many, including Digvijaya Singh and Adhir Ranjan Choudhary, are actively involved in managing the election campaign.

Controversial Remarks and BJP’s Tactics

Kharge addresses the controversy over Sam Pitroda’s remarks on inheritance tax, dismissing Modi’s claims about the Congress manifesto as baseless. He challenges the Prime Minister to a debate on the manifesto, asserting that the Congress has never aimed to confiscate property. Kharge criticizes the BJP for its alliance with the JD(S) in Karnataka despite allegations of sexual assault against a JD(S) MP. He also dismisses concerns about the alliance’s electoral strength, arguing that BJP’s previous victories in Karnataka were achieved through money power and not genuine public support.

Congress’ Commitment to Welfare and Development

Kharge reiterates the Congress’ commitment to welfare schemes, countering Modi’s derisive remarks about such initiatives. He highlights the party’s track record in implementing welfare measures, such as the National Food Security Act, and promises to double the free food grains provided to the poor from 5 kg to 10 kg. Kharge accuses the Modi government of rebranding Congress-initiated schemes and claims that the Congress’ focus on welfare will resonate with voters.

Challenges and Aspirations for the Future

Kharge acknowledges the challenges of leading the Congress at a time when the party is perceived to be struggling. However, he remains optimistic, pointing out that the party’s resilience has unsettled the BJP. He predicts that the INDIA bloc will secure more than 272 seats, promising a government focused on social justice, progressive policies, and economic growth.

The Importance of Caste Census and Electoral Reforms

Kharge defends the Congress’ support for a caste census, stating that it is necessary for ensuring social justice and not merely an electoral strategy. He criticizes the BJP for distorting facts and spreading lies about the Congress manifesto. Kharge calls for greater transparency in electoral donations and opposes the current system of electoral bonds, which he claims enables government manipulation and extortion.

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[tfgadgets]

Surat's Congress Candidate 'Missing' Day After BJP Pick Elected Unopposed

Congress candidate Nilesh Kumbhani missing from his Surat home Surat Congress leader Nilesh Kumbhani, whose nomination as Lok Sabha candidate was rejected over alleged discrepancies, is missing and can’t be reached over the phone, local media reported today. This comes a day after the BJP’s Mukesh Dalal was declared winner from the BJP stronghold after all rival candidates withdrew from the…

[gobeautifulnerdbouquetlove]

Lok Sabha Polls: How Surat 'Miracle' Got BJP to Win its First LS Seat Uncontested - News18

http://dlvr.it/T5t7Yp

[college-buz]

7 Union Ministers Not Renominated To Rajya Sabha By BJP: What It Means

Seven union ministers whose Rajya Sabha terms end in April have not been re-nominated by the ruling BJP, prompting speculation Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party may field them in the Lok Sabha election that is expected later the same month.

Among the big names absent are Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya (Gujarat), Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan (Madhya Pradesh), and junior IT Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar (Karnataka).

Also absent are Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav (Rajasthan), and Fisheries Minister Parshottam Rupala (Gujarat), as well as Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Minister Narayan Rane and junior External Affairs Minister V Muraleedharan, both of whom represented Maharashtra.

Sources have told NDTV all seven could now be fielded from Lok Sabha constituencies in various states.

Sources indicate Mr Pradhan may be fielded from Sambalpur or Dheknal in his home state of Odisha, while Mr Yadav may run from Rajasthan's Alwar or Mahendragarh, and Mr Chandrashekhar could contest one of the four seats in Bengaluru; three of these - Central, North, and South - are held by the BJP.

Similarly, Mr Mandaviya may run from Bhavnagar or Surat in Guajrat, while Mr Rupala may get Rajkot. Mr Muraleedharan, meanwhile, may be fielded from his home state of Kerala; the BJP has no presence there, and may look to high-profile names to revive its fortunes.

The BJP has retained only a few big names, in fact, only two union ministers from the Rajya Sabha have been retained - Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw (Odisha) and junior Fisheries Minister L Murugan (Madhya Pradesh). No outgoing MP who has served two or more terms has been repeated.

The only exception is party boss JP Nadda. He though, has been shifted - from Himachal Pradesh, which the Congress won in 2022, to Gujarat. It has also found space for new entrants, including former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, who quit the Congress this week.

Overall, it is all change for the BJP, with only four of 28 outgoing Rajya Sabha MPs renominated. The remaining 24 have reportedly been asked for their preference of Lok Sabha seats.

The party has named 28 candidates to the 56 seats that will fall vacant in April, with the focus on new faces and emphasising - to its leadership structure and the voters - its determination to recognise grassroots workers, even those who not known to the public, while also factoring in social equations.

A notable point is that three of the BJP's new Rajya Sabha MPs - Dharmshila Gupta (Bihar), Medha Kulkarni (Maharashtra), and Maya Naroliya (Madhya Pradesh) - are associated with the women's wing, in keeping with the PM's emphasis on the higher approval the party enjoys among women voters.

The BJP's strategy for the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha elections appears to mirror that for the five Assembly polls in November last year, when the party focused on "collective leadership" and selecting high-profile candidates - including fielding Lok Sabha MPs for state elections - to maximise outreach.

The plan worked well. The BJP swept to power in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh, winning the latter two back from the Congress as it dominated its Hindi heartland stronghold.

The BJP is well into its Lok Sabha election prep mode. Party sources said, as early as last month, that National General Secretaries had begun meeting every week (on Tuesdays) to develop strategies, including candidate placement. At one such meet, attended by Home Minister Amit Shah and party boss JP Nadda, the party said it would target first-time voters, beneficiaries of central schemes, and voters from backward classes, as well as young people and women, as it bids for a third consecutive term.

[advancegkquiz]

General Awareness|Practice Paper for SSC CGL Tier-1|SET-25

1. Which relation is wrong ?

(a) 1 cal = 4.18 j (b) 1 A°= 10^-10 (c) 1u = 10^-6 (d) 1 mile = 1.12 km

2. An ant is moving on thin (negligible thickness) circular wire. How many coordinates do you require to complete the motion of the ant ?

(a) One (b) Two (c) Three (d) Zero

3. When two cubes of ice are pressed on each other , what is the cause of their being one ?

(a) Van Der Waals Force (b) Dipole Moment (c) Hydrogen Bond Formation (d) Covalent Attraction

4. The earliest Surat factories were established by the

(a) Portugese (b) Dutch (c) English (d) French

5. The proposals for the partition of the India into India and Pakistan were contained in the

(a) Cripps Mission proposals (b) Cabinet Mission proposals (c) Prime Minister Atlee's statement of 20th feb,1947 (d) Mountbatten Plan of 3rd june,1947

6. In the Indus Valley Civilisation, the unit of weights and measurements was

(a) six (b) eight (c) twelve (d) sixteen

7. Vimanas in the temple architecture was a feature of the

(a) Cholas (b) Rashtrakutas (c) Chalukyas (d) Pallavas

8. Which Greek ruler was defeated by Chandragupta Maurya ?

(a) Megasthenese (b) Seleucus (c) Alexander (d) Darius

9. Asteroids of Planetoids circle between

(a) Venus and Earth (b) Mars and Earth (c) Mars and Jupiter (d) Jupiter and Saturn

10. Lakshadweep Islands are situated in the

(a) Arabian Sea (b) Palak Strait (c) Indian Ocean (d) Bay of Bengal

11. Which state in India is the largest producer of natural rubber ?

(a) Assam (b) Kerala (c) Tamil Nadu (d) Karnataka

12. The correct sequence of the given countries in progressively increasing order of their standard times in relation to the Greenwich Mean Time is

(a) Egypt,Iraq,India,Japan (b) Egypt,India,Iraq,Japan (c) Iraq,Egypt,India,Japan (d) Iraq,India,Egypt,Japan

13. Chemical weathering is most active in regions characterised by

(a) hot and dry climate (b) cold and dry climate (c) hot and wet climate (d) cold and wet climate

14. What is the total number of seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes in Lok Sabha ?

(a) 69 and 30 respectively (b) 84 and 47 respectively (c) 89 and 50 respectively (d) None of the above

15. Which of the following committees are the Parliamentary Financial Committees ?

(a) Public Account Committee (b) Estimates Committee (c) Committee on Public Undertakings

(a) a and c (b) a and b (c) b and c (d) None of these

16. What is 'Zero Hour' ?

(a) when the proposals of the opposition are considered

(b) when matters of utmost importance are raised

(c) interval between the morning and afternoon sessions

(d) when a money bill is introduced in the Lok Sabha

17. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected by

(a) Attorney-General of India (b) Solicitor-General of India (c) Chief Justice of India (d) Chief Election Commissioner

18. 42nd Amendment included additions to the directive principles related to three of the following matters.

1. Participation of workers in the management of industry. 2. Minimising inequality in income and status. 3. Protection of the environment. 4. Free legal aid to the poor.

(a) 1,3 and 4 (b) 1,2 and 3 (c) 1,2 and 4 (d) 2,3 and 4

19. Currency notes of the RBI are backed by certain assets.These assets must not be less than a prescribed amount of

(a) Gold and foreign securities (b) Gold (c) Government securities (d) Gold , foreign securities and Government securities

20. Which of the following passes lies in the sutlej valley ?

(a) Nathu la (b) Jelep la (c) shipki la (d) shera bathanga

21. Which of the following steel plants is not managed by Indian Steel Authority Limited ?

(a) Selaam Rust Resistant Steel Plant (b) Vishakhapatnam Steel Plant (c) Alloy Steel Plant , Durgapur (d) Bokaro Steel Plant

22. Lepcha tribe is found in which of the following state ?

(a) Meghalaya (b) Sikkim (c) Mizoram (d) Manipur

23. The famous Bronze image of Nataraja is a fine example of which art ?

(a) Chola Art (b) Gandhar Art (c) Mathura Art (d) Maurya Art

24. One of the observatories established by Sawai Jai Singh was at

(a) Agra (b) Indore (c) Ujjain (d) Jodhpur

25. Edward Jenner had Invented

(a) inoculation of tuberculosis (b) inoculation of AIDS (c) inoculation of Polio (d) inoculation of smallpox

           ANSWERS

1. D 2. A 3. D 4. C 5. D 6. D 7. A 8. B 9. C 10. A 11. B 12. A 13. C 14. B 15. D 16. B 17. C 18. D 19. D 20. C 21. A 22. B 23. A 24. C 25. D 

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[newscontinuous]

https://www.newscontinuous.com/country/lok-sabha-election-2024-evm-and-vvpat-awareness-program-will-be-held-in-various-areas-of-surat-city-district/

[werindialive]

“This is just the beginning, and we need to move forward,” Modi at the inauguration ceremony of Surat Diamond Bourse

Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the Surat Diamond Bourse and a new terminal at the Surat City Airport on Sunday. During the inauguration ceremony, PM Modi said that during his third term, India would become the 3rd largest economy in the world. He also added that the Surat Diamond Bourse is the largest office complex in the world.

In his address, the Prime Minister further said that the bourse measuring a whopping over 6.7 million sq ft of floor space, symbolizes “new India’s capabilities and resolutions.” The bourse, he said, represents the abilities of Indian designers, materials, and concepts.

In another event, Prime Minister Modi also unveiled a new terminal at the city’s airport. The new terminal was built at the cost of ₹353 crore and is designed with an amalgam of heritage aesthetics and sustainability features to facilitate seamless trade and travel, read a press statement.

“Surat has contributed significantly to Gujarat and the country, but in my opinion, it has even greater potential. According to me, this is just the beginning, and we need to move forward,” Modi said.

“As you all know, in the last 10 years, India has risen above the 10th position in global economic strength and is now ranked fifth in the world,” he added. “Now, your Prime Minister Modi guarantees that in his third innings, India will definitely be among the top three economies in the world.”

After assuming his office in 2014 Modi has run a second term after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led its alliance to victory in 2019. The upcoming Lok Sabha election 2024 will be the third term for NDA if the party wins.

“The government has also set targets for the next 25 years; whether it’s a $5 trillion or $10 trillion goal, we are working towards all of them,” Modi said.

“We are also working on taking the country’s exports to record heights. In this regard, the responsibility of Surat, especially its diamond industry, has increased manifold,” the Prime Minister said. “All the industry leaders of Surat are present here, and the city should decide how it can contribute to the country’s growing exports.”

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[legalupanishad]

Gujarat HC Denies Stay on Rahul Gandhi Conviction: Explained

This article on 'Gujarat HC Denies Stay on Rahul Gandhi Conviction: Explained' was written by Anukriti Prakash, an intern at Legal Upanishad.

INTRODUCTION

In a recent turn of events, reports indicate that the Gujarat High Court has denied a request to stay Rahul Gandhi's conviction in a defamation case involving the surname "Modi." This signifies that Rahul Gandhi has indeed been convicted for defaming others by utilizing the "Modi" name. As of now, Rahul Gandhi has been charged with criminal defamation under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code. Furthermore, Rahul Gandhi's request for a stay of execution was granted by the Gujarat High Court.  The public is now curious about the potential effects on political discourse. A comprehensive analysis of this legal battle requires a thorough understanding of the facts and legal aspects. This controversial verdict has resonated highly in the Indian political sphere, considering Rahul Gandhi is a notable leader of the Indian National Congress. This case stands as a reminder to public figures of the immense responsibility that comes with their words and the consequences that may occur when the use of those words is misconstrued. This article will offer insight into the details of the case, the implications of the verdict legally, as well as its effect on the Indian political system.

FACTS OF THE RAHUL GANDHI DEFAMATION CASE

The case involves a defamation complaint filed against Rahul Gandhi by a BJP leader named Mehsana for his remark on the surname 'Modi'. In 2019, while addressing an election campaign in Karnataka, Rahul Gandhi said, "Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi, Narendra Modi... how come they all have Modi as a common surname?". Rahul Gandhi's defamatory statement targeting the Prime Minister and the Modi community has resulted in serious legal consequences. In 2020, Gandhi was convicted of defamation and had to face a two-year imprisonment sentence. Seeking redemption, he lodged an appeal against the conviction. On March 23, Gandhi was sentenced to two years in jail under sections 499 and 500 of the IPC after a BJP leader and former Gujarat minister, Purnesh Modi, filed a criminal defamation case against the Congress leader. On April 20, the Surat Sessions Court accepted his appeal, suspended his sentence, but refused to stay his conviction. Gandhi's membership remained suspended because there was no stay of execution. Gandhi argued before the high court that a possible sentence of two years in prison for a bailable, non-cognizable offense could result in the loss of his Lok Sabha seat. Disappointed by the verdict, Gandhi attempted to halt his conviction, by appealing in Gujrat High Court.

ISSUES OF THE CASE

- Whether Rahul Gandhi's statement linking the surname 'Modi' to corruption during a political rally in 2019 was defamatory; and - Whether it had caused harm to the reputation of the plaintiff, who is a Gujarat MLA.

JUDGMENT

Recently, the Gujarat High Court made a contentious decision by refusing to stay Rahul Gandhi's conviction in a defamation lawsuit. This case involved the former president of the Indian National Congress and his comments during a political rally in 2019. Gandhi had claimed that the surname "Modi" had connections to corrupt acts. However, the plaintiff argued that this statement harmed his and his family's reputation. As a result, Rahul Gandhi was charged under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses criminal defamation. Rahul Gandhi's statement was determined by the court as defamatory and led to public shame and disgrace for the plaintiff. As a result of this finding, the appeal against conviction was dismissed, affirming the lower court's fair judgment. The recent legal verdict which has reignited the debate surrounding freedom of expression in India and the use of criminal defamation laws to silence dissent and criticism, has reverberated throughout the Indian political landscape — most pertinently for Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress who was embroiled in the case. This serves as a poignant reminder that public figures, such as Gandhi, must be diligent with their language, as they are not temporarily beyond the scope of defamation lawsuits. As a result, the implications are evident and this potent factor emphasizes the gravity of the prevailing problem and the need for balanced dialogue in the public arena.

ANALYSIS/CONCLUSION

In India, the conviction of Rahul Gandhi has ignited worries regarding the freedom to express oneself. This has triggered a debate on the suppression of disagreement and disapproval through criminal defamation laws. Critics claim that these laws frequently muzzle those who raise their voices against those in authority, including journalists, activists, and other prominent figures. The case is a stark reminder that public figures cannot evade legal consequences and should exercise caution in their statements. The legal ruling on Indian politician Rahul Gandhi is sure to cause a turbulence in the complex landscape of Indian politics. The conviction carries immense implications and may put the future of the Indian National Congress in jeopardy. This result has made it imperative to reconsider India's criminal defamation laws and the effects they potentially have on the right to freedom of speech and expression. In spite of holding public figures accountable for their words, it is equally essential to safeguard that laws are not misused to stifle any dissenting opinion. The judgement has consequently established an even more serious discussion surrounding the need for effectual legal reforms in India to ensure that laws accommodate the modern-day scenario and protect citizens' original rights. This trial has magnified the need for preserving a fair balance between the right to express one's thoughts and the right to keep one's honour intact.

REFERENCES

Sounak Mukhopadhyay, “Gujarat HC refuses to stay Rahul Gandhi’s conviction”, Live Mint, 7 July 2023, available at:  https://www.livemint.com/news/india/rahul-gandhi-defamation-case-gujarat-high-court-dismisses-rahul-gandhis-review-plea-to-suspend-conviction-11688695850059.html (last visited on 10 July 2023). Saeed Khan, “Defamation case: Gujarat HC rejects Rahul Gandhi’s plea for stay on conviction”, The Times of India, 7 July 2023, available at: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/defamation-case-gujarat-hc-rejects-rahul-gandhis-plea-for-stay-on-conviction/articleshow/101565702.cms (last visited on 10 July 2023). Read the full article

[gazetteweekly]

Rahul Gandhi vacates government bungalow: Reports

Rahul was forced to vacate the bungalow after he was disqualified as Lok Sabha MP following his conviction in a criminal defamation case.

NEW DELHI: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday vacated his government bungalow, reports said.

According to a report, Rahul Gandhi’s belongings have been moved to his mother Sonia Gandhi’s 10 Janpath residence.

The Lok Sabha Housing Committee, headed by BJP MP CR Patil, had sent him a letter asking him to vacate his 12 Tughlaq Lane bungalow, which he has been occupying since 2005, by April 22.

Rahul was forced to vacate the bungalow after he was disqualified as Lok Sabha MP following his conviction in a criminal defamation case.

Gandhi was convicted by a court in Gujarat's Surat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state, and sentenced to two years in prison in a 2019 defamation case for asking at an election rally whether people with the "Modi surname" were "thieves".

Gandhi had approached the sessions court for appeal after the lower court sentenced him to two years in jail.

But the sessions court in Surat rejected Rahul's plea.

[livewellnews]

After Court Setback, Rahul Gandhi To Vacate Delhi Bungalow Today: Sources

A disqualified MP is not entitled to a government accommodation and gets a one-month period to vacate his official residence.

New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will vacate his official residence in central Delhi today, sources said. Soon after his disqualification as an MP of the lower house of the Parliament, the Lok Sabha Housing Committee, headed by BJP MP CR Patil, had sent him a letter asking him to vacate his 12 Tughlaq Lane bungalow, which he has been occupying since 2005, by April 22. Though he is required to move out according to protocol, Congress leaders have accused the Centre of political vendetta.

A disqualified MP is not entitled to a government accommodation and gets a one-month period to vacate his official residence.

The Gujarat court had given him 30 days to file an appeal, which he did, and lost on Friday. This meant Mr Gandhi cannot be reinstated as MP for now.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) called the appellate court's decision upholding the lower court's conviction a "slap in the face of the Gandhi family", and said that the court proved that the law is equal for all and "there cannot be preferential treatment for any family".

The former Wayanad MP will now have to appeal in the Gujarat High Court or the Supreme Court against the Surat court's order to retain his Lok Sabha membership.

Earlier on April 3, the Surat Sessions Court granted bail to the Congress leader, who had filed an appeal following his conviction in the case.

Mr Gandhi, 52, was convicted by a court in Gujarat's Surat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state, and sentenced to two years in prison in a 2019 defamation case for asking at an election rally whether people with the "Modi surname" were "thieves".

Last week, workers were seen moving around objects as two trucks lay parked outside 12 Tughlaq Lane.

Mr Gandhi, who agreed to vacate the house, has been swamped with offers for homes by party leaders. His office has said he will move to his mother Sonia Gandhi's bungalow in central Delhi's 10 Janpath.

Congress alleged the Centre is being vindictive in going after Mr Gandhi, but the BJP has accused Mr Gandhi of "melodrama". "You know the lines of propriety, what is acceptable in the political system, the legal system. He (Rahul Gandhi) has been convicted by a court. Then, there are automatic procedures," Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had said, alluding to Mr Gandhi's disqualification.

[wordexpress]

"PM Modi Alone Enough...": Minister After Rahul Gandhi Meets Nitish Kumar

The union minister's response came after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav met Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi

Mumbai: Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Wednesday said that Prime Minister Modi is alone enough to take on all opposition parties that want to forge unity to take on BJP in the 2024 elections.

Speaking to ANI in Mumbai, Mr Athawale said National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is really strong under the leadership of PM Modi.

“If opposition parties want to come together, they can. PM Modi alone is enough to take on all of them. NDA is really strong under the leadership of PM Modi,” Union Minister said on Bihar CM Nitish Kumar meeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

The union minister’s response came after Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav met Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi and also Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday.

Opposition parties are striving as part of their efforts to unite as many as possible to take on the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

After the meeting, Mr Kharge talked of fighting the polls unitedly. Rahul Gandhi also talked of “standing together and fighting together”. Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said it is essential for all opposition parties to unite and oust the BJP-led government in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.

The meetings are being seen as an attempt by Congress and other opposition parties to take forward their “unity” displayed during the budget session of Parliament session that concluded on April 6. The session saw continuous disruptions over the opposition’s demand for a JPC probe into the Hindenburg-Adani row.

The opposition parties also slammed the government over the disqualification of Rahul Gandhi from Lok Sabha following his conviction by a Surat court in a criminal defamation case.

BJP leader and Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur on Wednesday took a swipe at the opposition parties over their efforts to forge unity to take on the BJP in the 2024 elections and said these parties were coming together for ‘Maha thug Bandhan’.

“When political parties that are indulging in corruption come together they form ‘Maha Thug Bandhan’. Corruption cannot be hidden. People know that they have neither policies, leadership, nor intention. People do not vote when there is a wrong intention. They don’t have any policy or leadership. People will not vote for them. During 2014, 2019 and UP polls also formed this ‘Maha Thug Bandhan’ but nothing happened as people know about them,” Mr Thakur told ANI.

Rahul Gandhi described the meeting with Janata Dal-United and RJD leaders as a “historic step” towards opposition unity and an ideological fight.

Rahul Gandhi, who posted a picture of Mr Kharge and him with JD-U and RJD leaders, said they are “standing together, will fight together — for India.”

“In this battle of ideology, a historic step has been taken today towards opposition unity. (We are) standing together will fight together — for India!” Rahul Gandhi said in a tweet on Wednesday.

Janata Dal-United president Rajiv Ranjan (Lalan) Singh was also present at the meeting held at Mr Kharge’s residence.

Nitish Kumar said they will try to unite as many parties as possible.

“We will try to unite as many political parties as we can and move forward together. We will sit and deliberate on the way forward. We have had discussions. Those who agree with us…we will then take decisions about the future. A lot of people will come together,” he said on Wednesday.

[astrosblogs]

In his appeal, Rahul says was treated harshly by trial court, sentenced to attract disqualification as MP

Gandhi, in his appeal filed in the sessions court against the conviction and two-year jail term handed last month, submitted he was treated harshly by the trial court.

SURAT: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday told a sessions court in Surat his conviction by a magistrate's court in a 2019 defamation case over his "Modi surname" remark was erroneous, patently perverse, and he was sentenced in a manner so as to attract disqualification as a Member of Parliament.

Gandhi, in his appeal filed in the sessions court against the conviction and two-year jail term handed last month, submitted he was treated harshly by the trial court which was "overwhelmingly influenced" by his status as an MP, and maintained there is no such thing as a definite Modi samaj or community on record.

In his application seeking the suspension of conviction, which will come up for hearing on April 13, the former Congress president said, "It appears reasonable to argue that the applicant was really sentenced in a manner so as to attract the order of disqualification (as an MP)."

Earlier in the day, Additional Sessions Judge RP Mogera's court granted him bail till the disposal of his appeal on a bond of Rs 15,000.

Gandhi (52), elected to the Lok Sabha from Wayanad in Kerala in 2019, was convicted in the criminal defamation case on March 23 by the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate H H Varma and sentenced to two years in jail.

The magistrate's court had granted him bail for 30 days to appeal the verdict.

A day later, he was disqualified as a Lok Sabha member under provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

"The judgment of conviction and order of sentence passed by the CJM (Chief Judicial Magistrate) is erroneous, patently perverse, in flagrant violation of principles of appreciation of evidence in criminal trial, illegal and unwarranted on the facts and circumstances of the case and on the evidence to substantiate the charge levelled against the appellant/accused," said Gandhi in his petition in the sessions court.

The judgment of conviction and order of sentence was passed without any evidence, he claimed in the plea filed through his lawyer.

The magistrate's court judgement was passed on the basis of assumptions, presumptions, conjectures, surmises and suppositions which are not permissible in the criminal law at all, according to the petition.

The order of conviction and sentence was bad in law and against the weight of evidence, and the trial judge was "overwhelmingly influenced" by his status as an MP, he said.

In such a case, he (trial judge) certainly presumed that the award of maximum sentence of two years would entail his disqualification as a Member of Parliament, said the plea.

The Representation of the People Act holds that an MP/MLA convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment for not less than two years shall be disqualified from the date of conviction.

"Parliamentarian, in Opposition, is expected or rather required to be 'vigilant and critical', and the view of the trial court that a Member of Parliament deserves to be awarded the highest punishment because of his status "is wholly unwarranted and manifestly unjust," said the four-time MP in his plea.

By the very nature of his task, a politician in Opposition cannot always weigh his words in golden scales, he said, adding, "Hence, it is incumbent upon courts to focus on the essence and spirit of the speech (related to Modi surname) made rather than on the tone and tenor.

He said "a strong and uncompromising opposition" is the essential requirement of a "true and healthy democracy."

"While performing his duties as a critic of the government, a Member of the Legislature, is very likely to cause annoyance and/or embarrassment to those in power," Gandhi stated.

While granting bail to Gandhi, the sessions court issued a notice to the complainant in the case, Gujarat BJP MLA Purnesh Modi, over the plea for the suspension of conviction and sought his response by April 10.

When the magistrate's court took the view that he deserved to be awarded the highest punishment because of being a Member of Parliament, it is expected that the judge would also be aware of the mandatory disqualification that it entails, Gandhi said.

"Such disqualification entails the rejection of the mandate of the electorate on one hand and huge burden on the exchequer on the other (for holding bypoll)," said the Congress leader.

Gandhi maintained the trial court erred in believing the accused didn't stop after allegations against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and industrialists Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi, Mehul Choksi and Vijay Mallya, and therefore he intended to defame all persons with the Modi surname.

The said sentence, "Why all thieves have surname Modi," was spoken in connection with PM Modi, Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi, and not people with the "Modi" surname," said the plea.

Barring this sentence, all the alleged defamatory comments are against PM Modi personally, the Congress leader said in the plea, adding there is no such thing as Modi samaj or community on record.

He said the complainant (MLA Purnesh Modi) terms the Modh Vanik Samaj or Modh Gachi Samaj or Teli Gachi Samaj as Modi samaj, even when there is no documentary evidence on record that they are all part of the Modi samaj.

Even otherwise, a Modi Samaj is "not an identifiable, determinate, definite group," Gandhi said.

"There are Modis in every community. There is no organization of persons having the surname Modi. There is no particular group of Modis which is referred to in the impugned defamatory statement as distinguished from the rest of the Modis," he said.

"Modis are 13 crores (in number), and all these people will not have a right to file the complaint because it is not an identifiable, definite, determinate group or collection of persons," said the 52-year-old Congress leader.

While awarding him the maximum permissible sentence (two years), the trial court treated it as "a case of extreme depravity" without giving attention to the fact that the petitioner (Gandhi) was a first-time offender, said the plea.

The appellant has been treated harshly both on the merits of the controversy (due to the remark) as well as at the stage of determination of sentence taking into account his position as a Member of Parliament, he said.

Gandhi said the proceedings of trial did not satisfy the requirements of a fair trial, and there were elements of unfairness vitiating the trial at various stages.

He said the defamation complaint was filed in "hot haste" at Surat by a sitting MLA of Bharatiya Janata Party (Purnesh Modi) two days after he made the comment at an election rally at Kolar in Karnataka.

There was no prima facie material to accept the allegations made by MLA Modi, the Congress leader said, adding the complaint was "motivated by political considerations".

The lower court observation, that the accused insulted and defamed the PM's surname and called him a thief for political gains, had no basis, Gandhi said.

[newnewz]

Rahul Gandhi In Surat Today To Challenge His Conviction In Defamation Case

Rahul Gandhi is likely to move a plea in Surat's sessions court to set aside the Magistrate order convicting him in the defamation case for a remark seen as an insult to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

New Delhi/Surat: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will appear in a Gujarat court today to appeal against his conviction and two-year sentencing in a 2019 defamation case.

Rahul Gandhi is likely to move a plea in Surat's sessions court to set aside the Magistrate order convicting him in the defamation case for a remark seen as an insult to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The former Congress president, sources say, will also ask for an interim stay on the conviction which would also restore his Lok Sabha membership.

Mr Gandhi, who was recently disqualified as a parliament MP after the Gujarat's court order, will be accompanied by his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and the Chief Ministers of three Congress-ruled states - Ashok Gehlot, Bhupesh Baghel and Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.

He had met his mother Sonia Gandhi yesterday before his court appearance.

The 52-year-old was convicted by a court and sentenced to prison for two years in Gujarat last month for a 2019 speech in which he linked PM Modi's last name with two fugitive businessmen, remarking how the "thieves" shared the same last name.

The court, however, granted him bail for 30 days to appeal the verdict.

The defamation case was filed against Rahul Gandhi by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi for saying "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?"

Mr Gandhi's Wayanad seat in Kerala is now vacant following his removal from the office and the Election Commission may now announce a special election for the seat.

Mr Gandhi's disqualification order prompted a fractured opposition to come together to attack the BJP over the alleged misuse of central investigative agencies against the members of rival parties.

The BJP has said the conviction has come from an independent judiciary, with party president JP Nadda accusing Mr Gandhi of insulting an Other Backward Class (OBC) community - a key vote base for the party.