Supreme Court Stays Defamation Trial Against Rahul Gandhi Over Modi Remarks

Supreme Court Stays Defamation Trial Against Rahul Gandhi

The Supreme Court on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, stayed the trial in a defamation case against Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi over remarks he made about Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018 in connection with the Rafale fighter jet deal.

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Aparesh Kumar Singh issued notice to the Maharashtra government and sought its response within four weeks while hearing Gandhi's appeal against a Bombay High Court order dated September 8, 2026.

The Supreme Court's interim order pauses the trial while the legal challenge proceeds. It does not, by itself, amount to a final decision on the merits of the defamation case.

Case Linked to Rahul Gandhi's 2018 Remarks

The defamation complaint concerns remarks in which Gandhi referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “choro ke sardar” and “commander-in-thief” while criticising the Rafale fighter jet deal.

The complainant alleged that the remarks hurt the sentiments of Modi's supporters. The complaint was filed by BJP member Mahesh Shrishrimal.

In August 2019, a Mumbai magistrate ordered proceedings to be initiated in the case. Gandhi subsequently challenged the order through the legal process.

Bombay High Court Had Declined to Quash the Case

On September 8, 2026, the Bombay High Court refused to quash the defamation proceedings. The High Court found no “manifest illegality” in the magistrate's order initiating the case.

Gandhi then approached the Supreme Court, challenging the High Court's decision. During the hearing on October 13, the Supreme Court issued notice to the Maharashtra government and requested its response within four weeks.

What Happens Next?

The Maharashtra government's response will form part of the continuing legal proceedings. The Supreme Court will consider the issues raised in Gandhi's appeal before determining the next steps in the case.

The stay means the defamation trial is paused for now. The underlying complaint and the challenge to the earlier court orders remain subject to further judicial consideration.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court's interim stay provides temporary relief to Rahul Gandhi in the defamation case concerning his 2018 remarks about Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Rafale deal. The matter remains pending, and the court's next consideration will follow the Maharashtra government's response and further proceedings.