Rahul Gandhi Cites Threat to Life in Pune Court over Savarkar Comments, Seeks Extra Security

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and prominent Congress MP Rahul Gandhi told a special court in Pune that his life is in danger due to comments he made about Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a revered figure among many in Maharashtra and across India. Gandhi appeared in court facing a criminal defamation case and appealed for enhanced security, stating that he has received threats because of his remarks about Savarkar.

Why Did Rahul Gandhi Claim Threats to His Life?

During the court appearance, Gandhi revealed that two political leaders had threatened him, directly linking these threats to his controversial comments on Savarkar. As a result, he petitioned the court to provide him with “preventive protection” to ensure his safety and a fair trial. According to Gandhi’s lawyer, Milind Dattatreya Pawar, it is the state’s constitutional responsibility to provide such security. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 10.

The Case: Defamation over Savarkar Remarks

The case originates from a complaint filed by Satyaki Savarkar, who accused Rahul Gandhi of making defamatory remarks against Veer Savarkar. Satyaki Savarkar belongs to the Savarkar family and is reportedly a descendant of Nathuram Godse and Gopal Godse, both accused in the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi. While Savarkar was acquitted, Nathuram Godse was hanged and Gopal Godse was also convicted.

Rahul Gandhi’s legal team submitted that, considering the historical background and the past involvement of some families in violent acts, and recent provocative statements made by certain political leaders, there is a genuine concern for Gandhi’s safety.

The Political War of Words

Rahul’s lawyer highlighted comments from BJP leaders—particularly from Ravneet Singh Bittu and BJP leader Tarvinder Singh Marwah:

Ravneet Bittu publicly labelled Rahul Gandhi as “India’s biggest terrorist.”
Tarvinder Singh Marwah made threats by referencing the violent fate of Gandhi’s grandmother, former PM Indira Gandhi, saying a similar outcome awaited him.

Both statements, made about a year ago, are cited in Rahul Gandhi’s petition as proof of the threats and hostile environment he faces.

What Exactly Did Rahul Gandhi Say About Savarkar?

The complaint refers to remarks made by Rahul Gandhi during a speech in London in March 2023. There, Gandhi allegedly cited an event from Savarkar’s writings, claiming Savarkar described an attack on a Muslim man as “pleasurable.” Satyaki Savarkar countered that there is no such incident in any of Savarkar’s works and filed a criminal defamation case.

Additionally, during the “Bharat Jodo Yatra,” Gandhi criticized Savarkar for allegedly accepting a pension from the British and writing mercy petitions out of fear. These comments sparked legal actions in Nashik and Lucknow, with the Nashik court granting bail to Gandhi and the Supreme Court warning him against further disrespectful remarks about Savarkar.

Context: Why the Security Concerns Are Serious

Gandhi’s lawyer argued that ongoing political protests, emotionally charged followers of the Savarkar and Godse families, and threatening rhetoric from political opponents create a risk for Rahul Gandhi. The recent climate of agitation, he says, makes a violent attack possible. The application for special protection was accepted, and the next court session is on September 10.

The Broader Picture

This case highlights the increasingly hostile and polarized political environment in India, especially around historical figures. It also shines a spotlight on the responsibilities of the state to protect political leaders and ensure fair judicial proceedings, while maintaining freedom of speech and respect for differing historical narratives.

What are your thoughts on Rahul Gandhi’s concerns? Should political leaders get extra security for controversial statements? How can India balance the right to free speech with the need for respectful public discourse? Tell us your views in the comments below!