A court in Assam’s Kamrup district has issued significant directions in Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s Rs 500 crore defamation case, granting an interim stay. Assam Congress president Gaurav Gogoi, Lok Sabha member, along with Congress leaders Jitendra Singh and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, have been restrained from making public comments on the Chief Minister’s assets. The court has also directed Jayanta Baruah, owner of Asomiya Pratidin, in relation to the case.
The court has summoned seven individuals, including Gaurav Gogoi, for a hearing on March 9. Chief Minister Sarma filed the defamation suit alleging false, defamatory statements aimed at tarnishing his public image. The case holds political significance amid increased political activity in Assam, with escalating allegations between the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress.
Emphasizing the need for restraint, the court granted the interim stay to prevent public statements or media reports from influencing ongoing judicial proceedings. Chief Minister Sarma stressed the importance of accountability in public discourse and vowed to protect his reputation through legal means. Meanwhile, Congress leaders defended their right to question those in power while respecting the legal process.
The court is set to review all parties’ submissions during the next hearing on March 9, where respondents are required to be present.
