tawde-files-defamation-case-against-kharge-rahul-and-sule

BJP general secretary Vinod Tawde has taken legal action against prominent Opposition leaders over allegations made against him in connection with a cash-for-vote controversy.

 

Tawde has served defamation notices to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, and Baramati MP Supriya Sule, demanding an apology or facing legal proceedings.

 

Tawde alleges that the accusations levelled against him are false, malicious, and baseless, aimed at tarnishing his reputation as a senior political figure. In his notice, he has demanded an unconditional apology from the three leaders within 24 hours of receiving the notice. Failing this, Tawde has stated he will seek damages amounting to Rs 100 crore in a civil court.

 

The notice, issued through Tawde’s legal counsel, claims that the statements made by the Opposition leaders were deliberate and defamatory.

 

According to the notice, the remarks have caused irreparable harm to Tawde’s reputation and standing as a responsible office-bearer of the BJP. While the damage to his reputation is described as "unquantifiable," Tawde has set a monetary value of Rs 100 crore as a basis for civil action.

 

In addition to the financial damages, Tawde has demanded the publication of an apology in leading newspapers. The notice specifies that the apology must be prominently displayed on the front pages of at least three English, Hindi, and Marathi dailies, along with a public acknowledgment on social media platforms such as X.

 

The notice warns of further legal consequences if the demands are not met. Tawde has threatened to file criminal proceedings under Section 356 BNS, which could lead to up to two years of imprisonment for the accused. He has also indicated plans to pursue a civil case for damages jointly and severally against the three leaders.

 

The cash-for-vote controversy has added another dimension to the ongoing political tussle between the BJP and the Opposition. Tawde’s move is seen as a strong response to what the BJP terms baseless allegations intended to damage its leaders' credibility.

 

This development highlights the rising tensions as political parties gear up for upcoming electoral battles. As the notice has set a 24-hour deadline, the next steps from Kharge, Gandhi, and Sule remain to be seen.