Mumbai’s sessions court delivered a stunning reversal on Thursday, exonerating Shiv Sena (UBT) firebrand Sanjay Raut from defamation charges brought by Medha Somaiya. The prominent BJP leader’s wife had accused Raut of spreading false claims about a massive corruption scandal in municipal projects.
Raut’s troubles began when a magistrate court found him guilty for his outspoken allegations of a Rs 100 crore fraud in Mira-Bhayandar’s public toilet contracts, implicating Somaiya. Sentenced to 15 days imprisonment and fined Rs 25,000, Raut appealed, arguing his statements echoed official assembly proceedings initiated by MLA Pratap Sarnaik.
‘I spoke on facts raised in the legislature. Today, justice prevailed—I’m happy, and so is my party,’ Raut declared after the sessions court dismantled the lower verdict following detailed hearings.
Somaiya had claimed Raut’s media blitz was a smear campaign designed to damage her and her husband’s image. The court scrutinized the timeline, evidence, and public interest elements before ruling in Raut’s favor.
This outcome highlights the fine line between political critique and libel in India’s charged electoral landscape. With Maharashtra’s assembly polls looming, such cases often amplify partisan tensions. Raut’s win bolsters his image as a resilient opposition voice, while Somaiya’s camp may consider further appeals. The judiciary’s role in balancing free speech and reputation remains under spotlight.