'We Respect The Order, But...': Purnesh Modi After SC Stayed Conviction Of Rahul Gandhi In Defamation Case

The Supreme Court's ruling, issued on Friday, has suspended the conviction of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in a 2019 defamation case concerning his remarks about the Modi surname.

'Modi Surname' Case: Former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi had filed a criminal defamation case in 2019 against Rahul Gandhi.

Former Gujarat Minister Purnesh Modi, a prominent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, responded to the Supreme Court's decision regarding the defamation case involving Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The apex court ruling, issued on Friday, temporarily suspended Gandhi's conviction in a 2019 defamation case, leading to the reinstatement of his status as a Member of Parliament.

Purnesh Modi, who had initiated the defamation case against Rahul Gandhi based on the Modi surname remarks, conveyed his respect for the court's decision to stay the conviction. However, he underscored his determination to explore additional legal avenues, stating, "We respect the court's order. But we will continue our legal battle."

#WATCH | "Today, SC has stayed Rahul Gandhi's conviction. We welcome this verdict given by the court. We will continue our legal battle in the court," BJP MLA Purnesh Modi, who filed a defamation case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/Zf4NGYI1La

— ANI (@ANI) August 4, 2023

The Supreme Court bench, comprised of Justices B R Gavai, P S Narasimha, and Sanjay Kumar, acknowledged the remarks made by Rahul Gandhi as being in poor taste. They emphasized the expectation that individuals holding public office should exercise caution and prudence when making public statements. The bench further noted that the trial judge had not provided sufficient justification for imposing the maximum sentence, prompting the decision to stay the conviction pending final adjudication.

Congress party celebrated the Supreme Court's ruling, portraying it as a triumph of truth and the people's voice. They hailed the judgment as a resounding vindication and described it as a "victory of love over hate."

The defamation case, which had been initiated by former Gujarat Minister Purnesh Modi in 2019, stemmed from remarks made by Rahul Gandhi during an election rally in Kolar, Karnataka, on April 13, 2019. Gandhi's comment, "How come all thieves have Modi as the common surname?" had sparked controversy and led to legal proceedings.