India National News Politics Uncategorized

Delhi HC Rebukes TMC Leader Moitra And Dehadrai In Defamation Case

On Monday, the Delhi High Court said that both TMC leader Mahua Moitra, and her ex-partner Jai Anant Dehadrai, a Supreme Court lawyer, lowered the quality of public discussion with their accusations against each other.

A bench led by Justice Prateek Jalan was listening to a defamation case filed by Dehadrai against Moitra. Dehadrai accused Moitra of receiving money and gifts from businessman, Darshan Hiranandani, CEO of the Hiranandani Group, to ask questions in Lok Sabha. At the same time, Moitra made false, rude, and defamatory remarks about Dehadrai.

Also Watch: Cash-For-Query Case: Tmc’s Mahua Moitra And Ex-partner Dehadrai Clash In Defamation Battle

Jai Anant Dehadrai, a Supreme Court lawyer, is seeking an interim injunction to prevent the expelled Lok Sabha MP, Mahua Moitra, from making “defamatory” statements against him. He is also demanding Rs 2 crore as damages.

The court, while clarifying its stance, stated that it does not intend to injunct anyone. It advised the lawyers of both parties to counsel their clients to exercise caution. The court also disapproved of the ongoing ‘public warfare’ between Mahua Moitra and Jai Anant Dehadrai, stating that it reflects poorly on both individuals.

The court warned Mahua Moitra’s counsel, highlighting the necessity for carefulness and suggesting that an injunction may be necessary if Moitra continues to make objectively false statements.

Nonetheless, the court also recognized Moitra’s entitlement to publicly defend herself if allegations against her are brought into the public domain.

The court told Dehadrai’s lawyer, and I’m quoting it, “You faced trouble getting an injunction because you have made public statements which made her get the scope to defend herself.”

The court additionally cautioned Dehadrai’s counsel, highlighting that if he is the plaintiff in a defamation case before the court, any injunction granted would be balanced against the equities. It stated that it must allow Moitra the opportunity to defend herself if Dehadrai persists in making allegations against her in the public domain despite initiating legal proceedings.

The court questioned why Mahua Moitra couldn’t state that Jai Anant Dehadrai made the allegations against her due to their relationship, adding, “That is her perception.”

The court emphasized, “Whether true or untrue, allegations carry consequences. But the accused has the right to present their side.” It stated that during the trial, it will evaluate the damage to Dehadrai’s reputation caused by the alleged defamatory statements.

Subsequently, the court adjourned the hearing, allowing written statements for Mahua Moitra. It was mentioned that Moitra plans to defend herself, citing justification and fair comment on the allegations made by Dehadrai.
The matter was scheduled for further hearing on April 25th.

Mahua Moitra, who was expelled from the Lok Sabha in connection with a bribery scandal, will be contesting from the Krishnanagar Lok Sabha constituency.

Dear Readers,
As an independent media platform, we do not take advertisements from governments and corporate houses. It is you, our readers, who have supported us on our journey to do honest and unbiased journalism. Please contribute, so that we can continue to do the same in future.

Related posts