Bathinda Court Permits Kangana Ranaut to Appear via Video Conferencing in Defamation Case
A court in Bathinda has granted BJP MP Kangana Ranaut permanent exemption from personal appearance in a defamation suit. The court allowed her to appear through video conferencing instead. The case was filed by an aged woman farmer named Mahinder Kaur.
Security and Election Concerns Cited as Key Reasons
The defence counsels for Kangana Ranaut presented several arguments to support their plea. They highlighted serious security concerns for the MP in Punjab. The state is fast approaching assembly elections, making Kangana a potential target due to her past statements.
Another critical factor was a video clip of the complainant, Mahinder Kaur. In an interview with a web channel, she could be heard saying that the police should take Kangana to court by using force. This statement raised alarms about the safety and propriety of a physical appearance.
Prosecution Opposed the Claims but Court Ruled in Favor
The prosecution opposed the defence's claims vigorously. They argued that Mahinder Kaur, being illiterate and elderly, failed to control her emotions and used harsh words unintentionally. However, the court considered all submissions carefully.
After reviewing the arguments, the court allowed Kangana's application for permanent exemption from personal appearance. The ruling permits her to attend court proceedings via video conferencing moving forward.
Previous Application Rejected Due to Lack of Evidence
Earlier, on January 5, the court had rejected a similar application from Kangana Ranaut. At that time, she sought exemption citing official and pre-scheduled commitments in Mumbai. The prosecution opposed it, calling the grounds vague and unsubstantiated.
The court noted a discrepancy in her previous plea. Initially, she cited participation in the winter session of Parliament, but the application mentioned a visit to Mumbai. No documents or schedules were provided to support these commitments, leading to the rejection.
Additional Court Proceedings and Recent Appearance
The court also allowed an application by the complainant, Mahinder Kaur, for summoning and examining additional witnesses. This move aims to ensure a thorough examination of the case.
Furthermore, the court directed Kangana's counsels to file a reply regarding the complainant's application for surrender of her passport. This step is part of the ongoing legal process.
Kangana Ranaut appeared via video conferencing on Thursday, complying with the court's new ruling. This method of appearance is now set to continue for future hearings in this defamation suit.
