Political responses to the HC ruling have been divided: the BJP has praised the upholding of the session court’s verdict, while the Congress has referred to it as a travesty of justice.
Source: India Today NE
The length of the punishment is in dispute. Rahul has received the worst penalty possible for slander under IPC Section 500. Any prison sentence of less than two years, such as six months or a year, would have been sufficient to uphold the rule of law and prevent the Congress MP from losing his or her seat. Notably, Mohammed Faizal, a disqualified Lakshadweep MP, had his conviction and 10-year term for attempted murder vacated by the Kerala High Court, which allowed for the lawmaker’s reinstatement earlier this year.
Source: Republic World
Rahul’s guilt and punishment were handed down swiftly after the trial court procedures, which raised suspicions that the entire process was designed to ensure his disqualification. Rahul is prepared to file a case with the Supreme Court, but if he is unsuccessful, he may be forced to withdraw from electoral politics.
The supreme court should eventually consider the effects Rahul’s disproportionate punishment will have on the right to free expression in a democratic society. The judges and legislature must also address the larger problem of decriminalising slander.
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