The year 2024 has been a tough one for former Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal. Earlier this year, just before the Lok Sabha Elections, Kejriwal was arrested by the ED in relation to the Delhi Liquor Case. However, on September 13, 2024, the politician was released on bail.
But Kejriwal was again summoned by the Supreme Court on October 21, 2024, because of the defamation case filed by Gujarat University Registrar Piyush M Patel. The complaint alleged that Kejriwal and AAP leader Sanjay Singh had made derogatory comments about Gujarat University in connection to PM Modi’s qualifications.
What is Arvind Kejriwal Vs Piyush M Patel Case?
Piyush Patel, Registrar of Gujarat University lodged a defamation against the AAP politicians, Arvind Kejriwal and Sanjay Singh. Patel accused the leaders of passing “defamatory” comments during news briefings and on their social media handles. The comments particularly target Gujarat University regarding Indian PM Narendra Modi’s educational certifications.
The complaint read, “The statements aimed at Gujarat University are of defamatory nature and inflicted cause to the university’s reputation.”
Proceedings of the Case
- The CIC (Central Information Commission) demanded Gujarat University, to present Modi’s postgraduate degree to Kejriwal. The CIC’s proceeding/ statement was stemmed from a query or based on a plea appealed by the AAP leader under the RTI Act (Right to Information).
- However, in March 2023, the university challenged the order in the Gujarat High Court. The challenge overturned the CIC directive and Kejriwal was imposed a fine of INR 25,000. The Gujarat HC also observed that the AAP leader’s RTI plea seems to be “politically vexatious and motivated” and not based on “sound public interest considerations.”
- Kejriwal expressed displeasure with the HC’s order, questioning PM’s incompetency of presenting his degree certificate in the court.
- AAP leader Sanjay Singh also supported Kejriwal’s opinion, and posted on X, “Doesn’t the country even have the right to know how educated their PM is? He vehemently opposed showing the degree in the court. Why? And those who demand to see their degree will be fined? What is this happening? Illiterate or less educated PM is very dangerous for the country”.
- The Gujarat University found the two politicians’ remarks “sarcastic” and “derogatory”. The university then filed a criminal defamation case against the duo. Approving the complaints by Piyush Patel, the Gujarat Metropolitan Court issued summons to Kejriwal and Singh.
- Challenging the court’s orders, the duo filed revised applications in the session court. However, their pleas were rejected. Subsequently, the leaders moved to the High Court, opposing the proceedings. But the HC too, turned down their petitions on February 16, leading the leaders to knock on the doors of the Supreme Court.
- On April 8, the apex court bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and Sandeep Mehta quashed Singh’s request, noting that all arguments are still open for consideration.
Recent Statement of SC Arvind Kejriwal Case?
In a similar vein, SC on October 21, 2024, also rejected Kejriwal’s petition. The top court’s bench led by Justice Hrishikesh Roy acknowledged that no relief will be given to Kejriwal, as the other bench in April refused to quash the summons issued to Sanjay Singh, who is also equally accused in the case.
The bench determined, “We must have a consistent approach. Having regard to that view, we would not like to entertain the present plea. The same is dismissed.”
Abhishek Manu Singhvi, a senior advocate, advocating for Kejriwal contended that his client just questioned Gujarat University for not publishing the PM’s educational credentials and doubted if it was because the degree was fake. Even if the statements are derogatory, the “contending client” should be PM, and not the university. He further added that Kejriwal was even ready to submit a sorry statement for his remarks.
Opposing Singhvi’s arguments, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the university stated that Kejriwal has the habit of “making reckless statements and then saying sorry.”
Read more related stories:
- India and Pakistan Extend Kartarpur Corridor Pact
- PM Modi and President Putin Meet Again: Second Time this Year
- Bangladesh on Boil Again? Protestors Demand President’s Resignation, Siege Banga Bhaban
- How is Trump Using WWE Stars to Enhance His Campaign Strategy?
- Arvind Kejriwal Vs Piyush M Patel: What is the Defamation Row About?
- No Formal Talks Yet India-Pakistan ‘Break the Ice’?
Naina Jaggi is an author deeply rooted in Journalism, mainly writing on lifestyle, entertainment, travel, politics and financial markets. This diverse experience has allowed her to blend rich details with engaging narratives that capture the essence of various worlds. When she is not crafting tales, you’ll find her immersed in music and enjoying the company of dogs. She is also into K-dramas, thriller and horror movies that fuel her imagination, bringing the same spark to her stories.
Comments