2020 Hathras rape: Court to hear defamation case against Rahul Gandhi on September 19
A court has served a notice to Rahul Gandhi regarding a defamation case filed by individuals acquitted in the 2020 Hathras rape case. The complainants allege that Gandhi's 2024 remarks about the accused being 'free' were defamatory.
Why it matters
This case underscores the ongoing legal tensions between political speech and defamation laws in India.
A notice issued to Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi , in a defamation suit linked to his remarks over the 2020 Hathras rape case has been served, the complainant's lawyer said on Tuesday (August 11, 2026).
The notice was issued by Additional District Judge of the MP/MLA Court No 5, Vijay Kumar Dwivedi, after hearing a revision petition on July 15.
On Tuesday's (August 11, 2026) hearing, the court was informed that the notice was duly served and was received by Mr. Gandhi, the complainant's counsel Munna Singh Pundhir said.
The court has fixed the next date of hearing on September 19.
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