Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot virtually appeared before a Delhi court on Monday as an accused in a criminal defamation complaint by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. The Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Harjeet Singh Jaspal noted that the sessions court allowed Gehlot’s video conference appearance and waived the bail bond requirement for the first hearing. The case was adjourned to August 21. Earlier, the sessions court rejected a stay but permitted Gehlot’s virtual appearance. The magisterial court summoned him on August 7 based on Shekhawat’s complaint over remarks linking him to the alleged Rs. 900 crore Sanjivani scam.
During the virtual inauguration of new districts in Jaipur, Gehlot expressed regret for missing a ceremony in Phalodi due to the court proceedings and strongly reiterated his allegations against the BJP leader. He expressed willingness to face jail if it helps the scam victims. Seeking relief from personal appearance, Gehlot cited practical inconvenience, and the sessions judge set the next hearing for August 19.
Shekhawat accused Gehlot of defaming him through press conferences and social media posts to damage his image and political career. Gehlot maintains his innocence and alleges that Shekhawat targets him to hide his involvement in the Sanjivani scam. The case has sparked interest and scrutiny in the political arena.
During the event at Birla Auditorium, Gehlot fiercely attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He questioned whether PM Modi considers himself a bigger “fakir” (ascetic) than him, highlighting that he never purchased property or gold. Gehlot also scrutinized PM Modi’s expensive eyewear, questioning what he expects to hear.
