Lucknow, 4 April 2025: Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has suffered a major setback from the Allahabad High Court. Rahul had challenged the lower court’s summons and fine order in the alleged derogatory remarks against Veer Savarkar, but the High Court dismissed his petition. The court said that Rahul has the option of filing a review petition in the Sessions Court, so his petition under Section 482 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) cannot be heard.

What is the whole matter?

The controversy started on 17 November 2022, when Rahul Gandhi was addressing a public meeting in Akola, Maharashtra during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Plaintiff Narendra Pandey alleged that Rahul made objectionable remarks against freedom fighter Veer Savarkar from this platform. According to Pandey, Rahul called Savarkar a “pensioner of the British” and said things to tarnish his image. The petition also claimed that Rahul had insulted not only Savarkar but all the freedom fighters of the country.
On the basis of this complaint, the lower court had issued summons to Rahul Gandhi. The court also imposed a fine of Rs 200 on his absence during the hearing. Against this, Rahul had filed a petition in the High Court, demanding cancellation of summons and fine.
High Court’s stand
Hearing Rahul’s petition, a single bench of Allahabad High Court made it clear that this case does not fall under Section 482 of the CrPC. The court said, “The petitioner has the right to appeal in the Sessions Court. There he can put his point. In such a situation, the intervention of the High Court is not necessary.” With this decision, Rahul’s hope of relief was shattered. The court also indicated that the decision of the lower court has been taken under the legal process, the way for review of which is still open.
Congress’s reaction and controversy
Sources close to Rahul Gandhi say that he will appeal against this decision in the Sessions Court. A Congress leader, on condition of anonymity, said, “This case is politically motivated. Rahul Gandhi had mentioned historical facts about Savarkar, which some people are presenting as an insult. We will continue the legal battle.” On the other hand, plaintiff Narendra Pandey welcomed the High Court’s decision. He said, “Rahul Gandhi hurt the image of a great freedom fighter like Savarkar. It is the right decision of the court that he cannot escape accountability.” Context of Savarkar comment Rahul Gandhi had claimed in a meeting in Akola that Savarkar had apologized to the British and taken pension on their behalf. This statement was based on his book and historical documents, but Savarkar’s supporters termed it insulting. This is not the first time that Rahul’s comment has sparked controversy. Earlier also, legal and political debate has erupted over many of his statements. Analysis: Challenge for Rahul Legal experts believe that this case can become a challenge for Rahul Gandhi on both political and legal fronts. Senior lawyer Sanjay Tiwari says, “This decision of the High Court is on technical grounds, but Rahul will have to defend his statement in the Sessions Court. If the matter proceeds further, it can affect his public life.”
At the same time, some analysts say that this controversy will further deepen the ideological confrontation between the opposition and the ruling party. There has already been tension between BJP and Congress over Savarkar’s image, and this issue can work to add fuel to that fire.
The way forward
After this decision of the High Court, now all eyes are on the Sessions Court. Rahul Gandhi has time to appeal, and his lawyers will soon decide the next step. Meanwhile, this matter will remain a topic of discussion not only in the legal corridors, but also on political forums. Will Rahul be able to prove his point in this battle, or will this controversy increase his difficulties? The answer to this will be found in the coming days.