Cheers rang out across Lucknow as Rahul Gandhi touched down Friday, en route to the Sultanpur MP/MLA court for a defamation showdown tied to his critique of Amit Shah. Congress mobilized in force to receive their leader, signaling robust backing.
Details from Akhilesh Pratap Singh: Delhi flight into Lucknow, direct drive to court for testimony, return leg to Lucknow, then Delhi departure. ‘Efficient and focused,’ he described.
Ajay Rai confirmed the personal showdown. ‘Fixed hearing, he’s there in flesh and blood. Supporters pouring in from all sides to bolster him,’ Rai said.
Aradhana Mishra Mona decried the strategy. ‘Political grudge fueling cases countrywide against Rahul Gandhi. We repose total faith in courts; every Congressman stands tall with him,’ she vowed.
Flashback to 2018 Karnataka elections: Gandhi’s Bengaluru presser comments prompted Vijay Mishra’s August 4 defamation plaint in Sultanpur. January 6 marked final notice; absence justified by counsel Kashi Prasad Shukla over Kerala engagements.
This court visit underscores ongoing tensions, with Congress viewing it through the lens of lawful compliance while decrying selective prosecution of its top brass.