Medha Patkar, a renowned social activist, has been sentenced to five months of simple imprisonment by a Delhi court in a defamation case that has been ongoing for 24 years.
The case was brought against her by VK Saxena, who is currently serving as the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. In addition to the jail term, the court ordered Patkar to pay Rs 10 lakh in damages to Saxena.
The legal conflict between Patkar and Saxena began in 2000, when she filed a suit against him for publishing advertisements that targeted her and the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA), a movement she has been associated with for decades.
Saxena responded by filing two cases against Patkar, accusing her of making derogatory remarks about him on a television channel and issuing a defamatory statement.
In May of this year, Patkar was convicted by the court of Metropolitan Magistrate Raghav Sharma. The court found that her statements against Saxena were not only defamatory but also intended to incite negative perceptions about him. The conviction marked a significant development in a protracted legal battle that had spanned nearly a quarter of a century.
During the sentencing on Monday, the court took into account Patkar's age and health, opting for a term of simple imprisonment rather than rigorous imprisonment. At 69 years old, Patkar's health was a significant consideration in the court's decision.
Despite the conviction and sentencing, Patkar has moved a bail plea before the court, which has resulted in the suspension of her jail term for 30 days pending the outcome of the bail plea.
Patkar's legal troubles stem from her long-standing activism and the contentious nature of her work with the Narmada Bachao Andolan. The NBA has been a focal point of her efforts to address the displacement of people due to large dam projects on the Narmada River. Her activism has often placed her at odds with various authorities and stakeholders, leading to numerous legal and political challenges over the years.
The defamation case highlights the ongoing tensions between activists and authorities in India. It also underscores the risks faced by individuals who challenge powerful interests in their pursuit of social justice.
Patkar's conviction and sentencing are likely to have significant implications for her future activism and may influence the broader landscape of activism in India.
As Patkar awaits the hearing of her bail plea, her supporters and critics alike are watching closely. The outcome of her bail plea will determine whether she will have to serve the five-month jail term or if she will be granted temporary relief.
In the meantime, the case continues to be a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those who dedicate their lives to social activism.
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