Addressing a rally in Kolar, a city in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka, former MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP-led centre for not providing due representation to the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in government jobs. Kolar is the site of the infamous, controversial speech from 2019 that recently got Gandhi disqualified as a member of Parliament (MP) last month.&nbsp;

The Indian National Congress (INC) leader, as per ANI, launched a slew of attacks against the ruling government and also announced poll promises.&nbsp;

"If the Congress party is voted to power in Karnataka, then we will provide 200 units of free electricity to every family, Rs 2000 every month to women, a total of 10 Kg rice per month to every family, Rs 3000 to every graduate till two years and Rs 1500 monthly to diploma holders," said Rahul Gandhi.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-was-atiq-ahmed-indian-gangster-turned-politician-shot-dead-live-on-tv-583016">Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV</a>

"If you [BJP] can give thousands of crores of rupees to Adani, then we can give the money to poor, women, and youths. You helped Adani wholeheartedly, and we will wholeheartedly help the people of the state," he added.&nbsp;

"Disqualify me, put me in jail, do anything, doesn't matter," said Gandhi as he alleged that the BJP government in Karnataka was "immersed in corruption."

Gandhi pointed to the indifference being meted out to the OBC community, which are present in larger number but whose representation in government jobs were less.&nbsp;

He said that "reservation for SC/STs should be proportional to their population," and that the union government "should lift 50 per cent cap in reservation."&nbsp;

Replying to allegations that he had insulted the OBC community with his Modi surname remark, the Congress leader said that&nbsp;the representation of OBC and Dalits in the central government is not in line with their population.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/drug-addict-petty-criminal-and-vagabond-three-men-who-publicly-executed-atiq-ahmed-and-his-brother-582978">Atiq Ahmed’s killers: Drug addict, petty criminals pull off daring murder in front of TV camera crews</a>

He also called on the BJP government to release the caste census report commissioned by his party-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in 2011.

"Only seven per cent of secretaries in central government offices are from OBC and SC/ST communities. Modiji, you talk about (the welfare of) OBCs. Let us know what their share is in the population. If you don't do this, it is an insult to OBC communities."

Back in 2019, Rahul Gandhi, during a rally in Kolar had remarked, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?."

This statement landed him in trouble, and recently he was found guilty in a defamation case over it, and sentenced to two years in prison. The prison sentence became the grounds for Gandhi's disqualification as an MP.

Urging people to vote for Congress in Karnataka's upcoming elections, Gandhi said "Aap Apna Kaam Karo, Hum Apna Kaam Karenge (You do your work and we will do ours)." Karnataka goes to Assembly polls on May 10. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 13.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Addressing a rally in Kolar, a city in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka, former MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP-led centre for not providing due representation to the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in government jobs.

Addressing a rally in Kolar, a city in the southwest Indian state of Karnataka, former MP Rahul Gandhi slammed the BJP-led centre for not providing due representation to the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) in government jobs. Kolar is the site of the infamous, controversial speech from 2019 that recently got Gandhi disqualified as a member of Parliament (MP) last month. The Indian National Congress (INC) leader, as per ANI, launched a slew of attacks against the ruling government and also announced poll promises. "If the Congress party is voted to power in Karnataka, then we will provide 200 units of free electricity to every family, Rs 2000 every month to women, a total of 10 Kg rice per month to every family, Rs 3000 to every graduate till two years and Rs 1500 monthly to diploma holders," said Rahul Gandhi. Also read | Explained | Who was Atiq Ahmed? Indian gangster-turned-politician shot dead on live TV "If you [BJP] can give thousands of crores of rupees to Adani, then we can give the money to poor, women, and youths. You helped Adani wholeheartedly, and we will wholeheartedly help the people of the state," he added. "Disqualify me, put me in jail, do anything, doesn't matter," said Gandhi as he alleged that the BJP government in Karnataka was "immersed in corruption." Gandhi pointed to the indifference being meted out to the OBC community, which are present in larger number but whose representation in government jobs were less. He said that "reservation for SC/STs should be proportional to their population," and that the union government "should lift 50 per cent cap in reservation." Replying to allegations that he had insulted the OBC community with his Modi surname remark, the Congress leader said that the representation of OBC and Dalits in the central government is not in line with their population. Also read | Atiq Ahmed’s killers: Drug addict, petty criminals pull off daring murder in front of TV camera crews He also called on the BJP government to release the caste census report commissioned by his party-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in 2011. "Only seven per cent of secretaries in central government offices are from OBC and SC/ST communities. Modiji, you talk about (the welfare of) OBCs. Let us know what their share is in the population. If you don't do this, it is an insult to OBC communities." Back in 2019, Rahul Gandhi, during a rally in Kolar had remarked, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?." This statement landed him in trouble, and recently he was found guilty in a defamation case over it, and sentenced to two years in prison. The prison sentence became the grounds for Gandhi's disqualification as an MP. Urging people to vote for Congress in Karnataka's upcoming elections, Gandhi said "Aap Apna Kaam Karo, Hum Apna Kaam Karenge (You do your work and we will do ours)." Karnataka goes to Assembly polls on May 10. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 13. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ahead of Karnataka polls, Rahul Gandhi alleges BJP state government 'immersed in corruption'

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has slammed the 'sanctimonious' western nations for commenting on internal matters of other countries. Jaishankar was replying to a question about Germany and the USA passing unsolicited remarks on the disqualification of Indian parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has slammed the 'sanctimonious' western nations for commenting on internal matters of other countries. Jaishankar was replying to a question about Germany and the USA passing unsolicited remarks on the disqualification of Indian parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi. The EAM said the West thinks it has the 'God-given' right to comment on India's internal matters. He was addressing a 'Meet and Greet' interaction in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru with BJP MP Tejaswi Surya and PC Mohan in attendance. "I will give you the truthful answer (on why we see West commenting on India). There are two reasons. It is because the West has a bad habit of commenting on others. They somehow think it is some kind of god-given right. They will have to learn only by experience that if they keep doing this, other people will also start commenting and they will not like it when it happens. And I see that happening," said Jaishankar. "The second part of the truth - In our arguments, you are inviting the people to comment on you. Then more and more people are tempted to comment. We also need to stop giving generous invitations to the world saying there are problems in India, and (urging) America and the world (by saying), why are you standing by doing nothing? So if somebody from here goes and says why are you standing by and saying nothing, then obviously they are going to comment. Part of the problem is them, and part of the problem is us. And I think both need fixing." WATCH | India has firmly responded to China: EAM S Jaishankar × What did the US and Germany say? Notably, earlier this week, the US state department issued a statement saying Washington was 'watching' the matter whilst issuing a sermon on 'democratic values' to New Delhi. "Respect for the rule of law and judicial independence is a cornerstone of any democracy. We are watching Mr Gandhi's case in Indian courts and we engage with the Government of India on our shared commitment to democratic values, including freedom of expression," said Vedant Patel, the US state department's main deputy spokesperson. ALSO READ | 'We are watching...': US state department on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from Indian parliament A few days later, Germany also chimed in with a response along the same lines, saying 'fundamental democratic principles' should apply in the case of the Congress leader's disqualification. "We have taken note of the verdict of first instance against the Indian opposition politician Rahul Gandhi as well as the suspension of his parliamentary mandate. To our knowledge, Mr Gandhi is in a position to appeal the verdict, " said a German foreign ministry spokesperson. Read more: Buying Russian gas is not funding the war, says Jaishankar What happened with Rahul Gandhi? Last month, a city court convicted the Indian National Congress (INC) leader Gandhi in a criminal defamation case for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced the Gandhi scion to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). However, he was granted a bail and has sought to appeal the decision. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'They think it's God-given right': Jaishankar slams 'West' for commenting on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification

Rahul Gandhi, a member of India’s opposition Congress party and former MP, will challenge his conviction by the Gujarat court in the criminal defamation case.

It has been learnt that the Gandhi family scion will file an appeal on Monday at the sessions court in Surat city to set aside the magistrate court’s order that found him guilty of maligning people who have Modi surname.

He will be accompanied by senior state leaders and national leaders of the Congress party.

The conviction and two years' jail sentence in the criminal case of defamation had cost Gandhi&nbsp;his membership as a lawmaker in the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament’s lower house).

If the higher court refuses to revoke the order, Gandhi won’t be allowed to contest elections for the next eight years, and the Lok Sabha seat, which he won from Kerala Wayanad constituency, will see by-polls.

On March 23, the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate HH Varma convicted Gandhi and sentenced him to two years in jail in the 2019 criminal defamation case.

The case was filed by a BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister, Purnesh Modi, for Gandhi saying, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?"

The Congress leader made these remarks while addressing a rally in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, targetting PM Modi over his last name, which he shares with fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi.

Following his disqualification as a Member of Parliament, Gandhi was served a notice to vacate his official Delhi bungalow, as he was no longer entitled to it.

Congress dubbed the move a ‘conspiracy’ to ‘silence’ Rahul Gandhi as he was asking tough questions in the Parliament on Prime Minister's alleged closeness with industrialist Gautam Adani, whose conglomerate has been accused of "pulling the largest con in corporate history" by US-based short seller&nbsp;Hindenburg Research.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Rahul Gandhi, a member of India’s opposition Congress party and former MP, will challenge his conviction by the Gujarat court in the criminal defamation case. It has been learnt that the Gandhi family scion will file an appeal on Monday at the sessions court in Surat city to set aside the magistrate court’s order that found him guilty of maligning people who have Modi surname.

Rahul Gandhi, a member of India’s opposition Congress party and former MP, will challenge his conviction by the Gujarat court in the criminal defamation case. It has been learnt that the Gandhi family scion will file an appeal on Monday at the sessions court in Surat city to set aside the magistrate court’s order that found him guilty of maligning people who have Modi surname. He will be accompanied by senior state leaders and national leaders of the Congress party. The conviction and two years' jail sentence in the criminal case of defamation had cost Gandhi his membership as a lawmaker in the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament’s lower house). If the higher court refuses to revoke the order, Gandhi won’t be allowed to contest elections for the next eight years, and the Lok Sabha seat, which he won from Kerala Wayanad constituency, will see by-polls. On March 23, the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate HH Varma convicted Gandhi and sentenced him to two years in jail in the 2019 criminal defamation case. The case was filed by a BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister, Purnesh Modi, for Gandhi saying, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?" The Congress leader made these remarks while addressing a rally in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, targetting PM Modi over his last name, which he shares with fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi. Following his disqualification as a Member of Parliament, Gandhi was served a notice to vacate his official Delhi bungalow, as he was no longer entitled to it. Congress dubbed the move a ‘conspiracy’ to ‘silence’ Rahul Gandhi as he was asking tough questions in the Parliament on Prime Minister's alleged closeness with industrialist Gautam Adani, whose conglomerate has been accused of "pulling the largest con in corporate history" by US-based short seller Hindenburg Research. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to challenge defamation case conviction on Monday

Days after the US commented on the disqualification of Indian parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi, Germany has also chimed in with a response. The German foreign ministry released a statement saying 'fundamental democratic principles' should apply in the case of the Congress leader's disqualification.

Days after the US commented on the disqualification of Indian parliamentarian Rahul Gandhi, Germany has also chimed in with a response. The German foreign ministry released a statement saying 'fundamental democratic principles' should apply in the case of the Congress leader's disqualification. A spokesperson of the ministry said the Deutsch government had 'taken note' of the verdict by the Indian court and subsequent suspension of his 'parliamentary mandate'. "We have taken note of the verdict of first instance against the Indian opposition politician Rahul Gandhi as well as the suspension of his parliamentary mandate. To our knowledge, Mr Gandhi is in a position to appeal the verdict, " said the spokesperson. "It will then become clear whether this verdict will stand and whether the suspension of his mandate has any basis. We expect that the standards of judicial independence and fundamental democratic principles will equally apply to the proceedings against Rahul Gandhi,” the ministry added. WATCH | India's Rahul Gandhi disqualified from parliament × Notably, earlier this week, the US state department issued a statement saying Washington was 'watching' the matter whilst issuing a sermon on 'democratic values' to New Delhi. "Respect for the rule of law and judicial independence is a cornerstone of any democracy. We are watching Mr Gandhi's case in Indian courts and we engage with the Government of India on our shared commitment to democratic values, including freedom of expression," said Vedant Patel, the US state department's main deputy spokesperson. ALSO READ | 'We are watching...': US state department on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from Indian parliament The statements by the US were not met kindly as the netizens thrashed the Biden administration for unnecessarily trying to interfere in India's internal politics. What happened with Rahul Gandhi? Last week, a city court in the western Indian state of Gujarat convicted the Indian National Congress (INC) leader in a criminal defamation case for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After US, Germany chimes in with statement on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification

As the controversy surrounding Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from the Indian parliament gains pace, the US has also chimed in with a response.&nbsp;Vedant Patel, the US state department's main deputy spokesperson on Monday said Washington was 'watching' the developments unfolding in the court case concerning Gandhi.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Patel interspersed his comments with the routine drizzling of 'protection of human rights' and 'democratic principles'.&nbsp;

"Respect for the rule of law and judicial independence is a cornerstone of any democracy. We are watching Mr Gandhi's case in Indian courts and we engage with the Government of India on our shared commitment to democratic values, including freedom of expression," said Patel.&nbsp;

When quizzed by the reporter if the United States was actively engaging with India regarding the matter as well as Gandhi - the opposition leader, Patel said:

"I don't have any specific engagements to read out.&nbsp;But as I'm sure you know as someone who's covered this department for some time, it is normal and standard for us to engage with members of opposition parties in any country where we have bilateral relationships. But I don't have any specific engagement to read out."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"Watching Mr. Gandhi’s case in Indian courts, and we engage with the Government of India on our shared commitment to democratic values", US state dept on Rahul Gandhi <a href="https://t.co/pQb2b6bRqY">https://t.co/pQb2b6bRqY</a> <a href="https://t.co/zUxk33csVy">pic.twitter.com/zUxk33csVy</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1640545983179407363?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-will-continue-to-raise-questions-over-tycoon-adani-575706">WATCH |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-will-continue-to-raise-questions-over-tycoon-adani-575706/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-parliament-adjourned-after-raucous-protests-by-opposition-over-rahul-gandhis-expulsion-576211#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

Netizens did not take kindly to Patel's statement after it went viral on social media platforms, calling it an attempt to interfere in Indian politics. One tweeted, 'Keep watching only thing you can do', while another added, '"And we will try to lecture them on democracy, completely ignoring the fact that we ourselves support military dictatorship and thrown democratically elected government in the past" -- they forgot to add this."

<h2>What happened with Rahul Gandhi?</h2>

Last week, a city court in the western Indian state of Gujarat&nbsp;convicted the Indian National Congress (INC) leader&nbsp;in a criminal defamation case for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks.&nbsp;

The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rahul-gandhi-convicted-in-2019-modi-surname-defamation-case-gets-two-year-jail-term-574899">ALSO READ |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term</a>

After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the&nbsp;Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala.&nbsp;

Since then, the opposition has been up in arms about the issue, calling the disqualification unjust. The Indian parliament and its both houses were adjourned on Monday after the opposition took a collective stance and protested the move.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

As the controversy surrounding Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from the Indian parliament gains pace, the US has also chimed in with a response. Vedant Patel, the US state department's main deputy spokesperson on Monday said Washington was 'watching' the developments unfolding in the court case concerning Gandhi.

As the controversy surrounding Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from the Indian parliament gains pace, the US has also chimed in with a response. Vedant Patel, the US state department's main deputy spokesperson on Monday said Washington was 'watching' the developments unfolding in the court case concerning Gandhi. Patel interspersed his comments with the routine drizzling of 'protection of human rights' and 'democratic principles'. "Respect for the rule of law and judicial independence is a cornerstone of any democracy. We are watching Mr Gandhi's case in Indian courts and we engage with the Government of India on our shared commitment to democratic values, including freedom of expression," said Patel. When quizzed by the reporter if the United States was actively engaging with India regarding the matter as well as Gandhi - the opposition leader, Patel said: "I don't have any specific engagements to read out. But as I'm sure you know as someone who's covered this department for some time, it is normal and standard for us to engage with members of opposition parties in any country where we have bilateral relationships. But I don't have any specific engagement to read out." "Watching Mr. Gandhi’s case in Indian courts, and we engage with the Government of India on our shared commitment to democratic values", US state dept on Rahul Gandhi https://t.co/pQb2b6bRqY pic.twitter.com/zUxk33csVy — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 28, 2023 × WATCH | Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani × Netizens did not take kindly to Patel's statement after it went viral on social media platforms, calling it an attempt to interfere in Indian politics. One tweeted, 'Keep watching only thing you can do', while another added, '"And we will try to lecture them on democracy, completely ignoring the fact that we ourselves support military dictatorship and thrown democratically elected government in the past" -- they forgot to add this." What happened with Rahul Gandhi? Last week, a city court in the western Indian state of Gujarat convicted the Indian National Congress (INC) leader in a criminal defamation case for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). ALSO READ | India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Since then, the opposition has been up in arms about the issue, calling the disqualification unjust. The Indian parliament and its both houses were adjourned on Monday after the opposition took a collective stance and protested the move. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We are watching...': US state department on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from Indian parliament

Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. Speaker Om Birla, presiding over the lower house Lok Sabha said he wanted to run the House with dignity and adjourned the proceedings.&nbsp;

Before the commencement of the morning session, opposition MPs&nbsp;participated in a meeting held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha and Congres chief&nbsp;Mallikarjun Kharge.&nbsp;

"I thank everyone who supported this. That is why, I thanked everyone yesterday and I thank them today as well. We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us," Kharge told reporters after the meeting.&nbsp;

Last week, a city court in Surat&nbsp;convicted Rahul Gandhi&nbsp;in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks.&nbsp;The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-will-continue-to-raise-questions-over-tycoon-adani-575706">WATCH |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rahul-gandhi-will-continue-to-raise-questions-over-tycoon-adani-575706/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Gandhi&nbsp;made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

“Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader.&nbsp;

After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the&nbsp;Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rahul-gandhi-convicted-in-2019-modi-surname-defamation-case-gets-two-year-jail-term-574899">ALSO READ |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term</a>

"Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023," read the statement released by&nbsp;Lok Sabha Secretariat.&nbsp;

Following his disqualification, Gandhi is not eligible able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence.

Notably, the Wayanad MP is the scion of India's most famous political family -&nbsp;the Gandhi family. Despite coming from a privileged background, Gandhi has not been able to compete against the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP government. His disqualification ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections may hurt INC's chances of staging a comeback.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi.

Both houses of the Indian parliament were adjourned on Monday after the opposition lodged strong protests over the expulsion of Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi. Speaker Om Birla, presiding over the lower house Lok Sabha said he wanted to run the House with dignity and adjourned the proceedings. Before the commencement of the morning session, opposition MPs participated in a meeting held in the chamber of Leader of Opposition Rajya Sabha and Congres chief Mallikarjun Kharge. "I thank everyone who supported this. That is why, I thanked everyone yesterday and I thank them today as well. We welcome anyone who comes forward to protect democracy and Constitution and safeguard the people. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the people who support us," Kharge told reporters after the meeting. Last week, a city court in Surat convicted Rahul Gandhi in a criminal defamation case filed against him for his alleged 'Modi surname' remarks. The court sentenced Gandhi to two years in jail while imposing a fine of Rs 15,000 ($183), under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 499 (defamation), 500 (punishment for defamation). WATCH | Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani × Gandhi made the alleged remarks while addressing a rally at Kolar in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. “Why all the thieves, be it Nirav Modi, Lalit Modi or Narendra Modi, have Modi in their names,” remarked the Congress leader. After an appeal, his sentence was suspended and bail granted to move an appeal against the conviction in under 30 days. However, the very next day, the Indian parliament disqualified the Indian MP from Wayanad - a district in the southern Indian state of Kerala. ALSO READ | India: Rahul Gandhi convicted in 2019 'Modi surname' defamation case, gets two-year jail term "Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023," read the statement released by Lok Sabha Secretariat. Following his disqualification, Gandhi is not eligible able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence. Notably, the Wayanad MP is the scion of India's most famous political family - the Gandhi family. Despite coming from a privileged background, Gandhi has not been able to compete against the popularity of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP government. His disqualification ahead of the crucial 2024 general elections may hurt INC's chances of staging a comeback. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian parliament adjourned after raucous protests by opposition over Rahul Gandhi's expulsion

A day after he was disqualified from the Indian parliament, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-is-rahul-gandhi-the-indian-opposition-leader-disqualified-from-parliament-575302">Congress leader Rahul Gandhi</a> said on Saturday (March 25) that he is not scared of disqualifications, threats or prison sentences and would continue to question the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Gautam Adani. Addressing a press conference, Gandhi said, "I have said many times before that democracy is being attacked in the country. We are seeing examples of this each day. I asked questions in the parliament regarding the relationship between PM Modi and Adani."

Gandhi said that Prime Minister Modi is scared of his next speech on Adani, "and I have seen it in his eyes."

"That is why, first the distraction and then the disqualification," the Congress leader told reporters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plea-filed-in-indian-supreme-court-against-law-that-disqualified-rahul-gandhi-as-mp-575537">Activist files plea in India’s apex court against law that stripped Rahul Gandhi of his MP status</a>

On being asked if he would apologise for the "Modi surname" remark which led to the defamation case, Gandhi told reporters, "I am a Gandhi and not Savarkar, and Gandhis do not apologise."

Gandhi also said that even if he was disqualified (from parliament) permanently, he would keep fighting for the country.&nbsp;

"I will keep doing my work. it does not matter if I am inside the parliament or not. I will keep fighting for the country," he said.&nbsp;

"My job is to defend the democratic nature of the country which means defending the institutions of the country, defending the voice of the poor people of the country and telling people the truth about people like Adani who are exploiting the relationship they have with the PM," the Congress leader told reporters.&nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from parliament comes after a court in Gujarat found him guilty in a 2019 defamation case on Thursday. During a Lok Sabha election rally in Karnataka in April 2019, Gandhi referred to thieves as having the surname Modi. 
 
After convicting Gandhi,&nbsp;the court granted him bail and suspended his jail sentence for 30 days to allow him to appeal in a higher court.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-disqualified-from-parliament-what-next-for-the-indian-opposition-leader-575354">Rahul Gandhi disqualified from parliament. What next for the Indian opposition leader?</a>

The parliament notification on Friday said that Gandhi was disqualified from the membership of the Lok Sabha as per the provisions of Article 102 (1) (e) of the Constitution of India read with Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.&nbsp;

On Saturday, a plea was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which Gandhi was disqualified. According to the legal news portal Bar and Bench, the petition filed by scholar and social activist Aabha Muralidharan urged the court to declare “ultra-vires” Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for automatic disqualification of a legislator from the parliament or state assembly upon conviction in a criminal case.&nbsp;

The petitioner said factors such as nature, gravity, role, moral turpitude, and the role of the accused, ought to be examined while considering disqualification under Chapter III of the 1951 Act. 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A day after he was disqualified from the Indian parliament, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Saturday (March 25) that he is not scared of disqualifications, threats or prison sentences and would continue to question the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Gautam Adani.

A day after he was disqualified from the Indian parliament, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Saturday (March 25) that he is not scared of disqualifications, threats or prison sentences and would continue to question the relationship between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Gautam Adani. Addressing a press conference, Gandhi said, "I have said many times before that democracy is being attacked in the country. We are seeing examples of this each day. I asked questions in the parliament regarding the relationship between PM Modi and Adani." Gandhi said that Prime Minister Modi is scared of his next speech on Adani, "and I have seen it in his eyes." "That is why, first the distraction and then the disqualification," the Congress leader told reporters. ALSO READ | Activist files plea in India’s apex court against law that stripped Rahul Gandhi of his MP status On being asked if he would apologise for the "Modi surname" remark which led to the defamation case, Gandhi told reporters, "I am a Gandhi and not Savarkar, and Gandhis do not apologise." Gandhi also said that even if he was disqualified (from parliament) permanently, he would keep fighting for the country. "I will keep doing my work. it does not matter if I am inside the parliament or not. I will keep fighting for the country," he said. "My job is to defend the democratic nature of the country which means defending the institutions of the country, defending the voice of the poor people of the country and telling people the truth about people like Adani who are exploiting the relationship they have with the PM," the Congress leader told reporters. Rahul Gandhi's disqualification from parliament comes after a court in Gujarat found him guilty in a 2019 defamation case on Thursday. During a Lok Sabha election rally in Karnataka in April 2019, Gandhi referred to thieves as having the surname Modi. After convicting Gandhi, the court granted him bail and suspended his jail sentence for 30 days to allow him to appeal in a higher court. ALSO READ | Rahul Gandhi disqualified from parliament. What next for the Indian opposition leader? The parliament notification on Friday said that Gandhi was disqualified from the membership of the Lok Sabha as per the provisions of Article 102 (1) (e) of the Constitution of India read with Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. On Saturday, a plea was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which Gandhi was disqualified. According to the legal news portal Bar and Bench, the petition filed by scholar and social activist Aabha Muralidharan urged the court to declare “ultra-vires” Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for automatic disqualification of a legislator from the parliament or state assembly upon conviction in a criminal case. The petitioner said factors such as nature, gravity, role, moral turpitude, and the role of the accused, ought to be examined while considering disqualification under Chapter III of the 1951 Act. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

I'm not Savarkar, won't apologise: Rahul Gandhi on disqualification from Indian parliament

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a member of the Lower House of the parliament.

The petition filed by scholar and social activist&nbsp;Aabha Muralidharan&nbsp;on Saturday has urged the apex court to declare “ultra-vires” Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for automatic disqualification of a legislator from the parliament or state assembly upon conviction in a criminal case, according to legal news portal Bar and Bench.

The petitioner said that factors such as nature, gravity, role, moral turpitude and the role of the accused, ought to be examined while considering disqualification under Chapter III of the 1951 Act.

On Friday, Rahul, MP from southern Kerala state’s Wayanad constituency, was disqualified from the Lok Sabha after he was found guilty and sentenced to two years prison by a court in Surat city of the western state Gujarat in a&nbsp;2019 defamation case.

<h2>Gravitas: Rahul Gandhi expelled from Lok Sabha following conviction in defamation case</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-rahul-gandhi-expelled-from-lok-sabha-following-conviction-in-defamation-case-575454/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The defamation case was filed by a BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi for Gandhi saying, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?"

Reacting to his disqualification, Rahul said he is ready to "pay any price".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-disqualified-from-parliament-what-next-for-the-indian-opposition-leader-575354">Rahul Gandhi disqualified from Lok Sabha. What next for India’s oppn leader?</a>

"I am fighting for the voice of India. I am ready to pay any price," he tweeted in Hindi on Friday.

Following his expulsion, the former Congress chief's Wayanad seat also fell vacant. Bypolls to vacant seats in the Parliament and state legislatures must be held within six months from when the seat falls vacant, according to Section 151A of the Representation of the People Act, 2015.

While addressing a rally in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul targeted PM Modi over his last name which he shares with fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a member of the Lower House of the parliament.

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court of India challenging the provisions of the Representatives of the Peoples Act under which opposition Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi has been disqualified as a member of the Lower House of the parliament. The petition filed by scholar and social activist Aabha Muralidharan on Saturday has urged the apex court to declare “ultra-vires” Section 8(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for automatic disqualification of a legislator from the parliament or state assembly upon conviction in a criminal case, according to legal news portal Bar and Bench. The petitioner said that factors such as nature, gravity, role, moral turpitude and the role of the accused, ought to be examined while considering disqualification under Chapter III of the 1951 Act. On Friday, Rahul, MP from southern Kerala state’s Wayanad constituency, was disqualified from the Lok Sabha after he was found guilty and sentenced to two years prison by a court in Surat city of the western state Gujarat in a 2019 defamation case. Gravitas: Rahul Gandhi expelled from Lok Sabha following conviction in defamation case The defamation case was filed by a BJP MLA and former Gujarat minister Purnesh Modi for Gandhi saying, "How come all thieves have the common surname Modi?" Reacting to his disqualification, Rahul said he is ready to "pay any price". Also read | Rahul Gandhi disqualified from Lok Sabha. What next for India’s oppn leader? "I am fighting for the voice of India. I am ready to pay any price," he tweeted in Hindi on Friday. Following his expulsion, the former Congress chief's Wayanad seat also fell vacant. Bypolls to vacant seats in the Parliament and state legislatures must be held within six months from when the seat falls vacant, according to Section 151A of the Representation of the People Act, 2015. While addressing a rally in Karnataka ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Rahul targeted PM Modi over his last name which he shares with fugitive businessmen Nirav Modi and Lalit Modi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Activist files plea in India’s apex court against law that stripped Rahul Gandhi of his MP status

Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, who belongs to the Congress party, was disqualified from parliament on Friday (March 24) after a court found him guilty in a 2019 defamation case a day earlier.

Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, who belongs to the Congress party, was disqualified from parliament on Friday (March 24) after a court found him guilty in a 2019 defamation case a day earlier. Rahul was granted bail by the court and his jail sentence has been suspended for 30 days to allow him to appeal in a higher court. On Thursday, a Surat court sentenced Gandhi to two years imprisonment in the defamation case over his 'Modi surname' thieves remark made in April 2019 during a Lok Sabha election rally in the state of Karnataka. Following his disqualification, Gandhi will not be able to contest elections for eight years. The Congress party said on Friday that it would legally and politically challenge Gandhi's disqualification. Meanwhile, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said the disqualification was lawful and that Gandhi insulted a community at the time of the elections. Who is Rahul Gandhi? Rahul Gandhi, 52, is a scion of the Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty. He was born on June 19, 1970, to Rajiv Gandhi (the former prime minister of India) and Sonia Gandhi. His father Rajiv Gandhi, the sixth prime minister of the country, was assassinated on May 21, 1991. Rahul Gandhi saw himself pursuing his undergraduate studies at Delhi University's St Stephens College before moving to Harvard University. Due to the security threats following the assassination of his father, Gandhi shifted to Rollins College in Florida where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in 1994. He went on to pursue and complete his M.Phil from Trinity College, Cambridge in the year 1995, according to the Congress party's website. After completing his higher education, Gandhi initiated his professional vocation with the Monitor Group, a management consulting firm in London. He subsequently returned to India and established a technology outsourcing firm called Backops Services Private Ltd. in Mumbai where he was one of the directors, the website says. Entry into politics Rahul Gandhi announced his entry into Indian politics in 2004 and said that he would contest the general elections in India from his late father's constituency Amethi, a seat which he retained in the 2009 and 2014 general elections. On September 24, 2007, during a reorganisation of the party secretariat, Gandhi was appointed the General Secretary of the All India Congress Committee (AICC). He was also given charge of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and the Indian Youth Congress (IYC). Click here to follow all LIVE Updates on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification In 2013, Gandhi became the vice-president of the Congress party. 2011 arrest According to the Congress party's website, Rahul Gandhi was arrested on May 11, 2011, in Uttar Pradesh's Bhatta Parsaul village for lending his support to protesting farmers who were rightfully claiming greater compensation for their land that had been acquired by the authorities for a highway project. He was later released on bail. Congress President In 2017, Rahul Gandhi became president of the Congress party and held this position till 2019. In the 2019 general elections, Gandhi contested from two constituencies, Amethi and Wayanad. He won the Wayanad seat but lost in Amethi. And after the party's poor performance in the elections, Gandhi took responsibility for it and announced he was stepping down from the top post. Sharing a four-page letter on Twitter on July 3, 2019, Gandhi said it was an honour for him to serve the Congress "whose values and ideals have served as the lifeblood of our beautiful nation." In the letter, Gandhi said, "As President of the Congress party, I am responsible for the loss of the 2019 election. Accountability is critical for the future growth of our party. It is for this reason I have resigned as Congress President." Following his resignation, his mother Sonia Gandhi became the party's interim president till 2022 after which Mallikarjun Kharge took over the top post. The 2019 defamation case On Thursday (March 23), Rahul Gandhi was convicted for a 2019 speech in which he referred to thieves as having the surname Modi. The court granted him bail immediately and suspended the sentence for a month. The case against Gandhi was filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Surat West Purnesh Modi. And a day later, on Friday, he was disqualified from parliament. Is there any other defamation case against Gandhi? Yes, there are many defamation cases against the Congress leader including the Ahmedabad defamation case, the Patna defamation case and the RSS defamation case Disqualification from parliament On Friday, a parliament notice said that Rahul Gandhi was disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha. "Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e March 23, 2023, in terms of the provisions of Article 102 (1) (e) of the Constitution of India read with Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951," the notice read. The Congress said on Friday that the action against Gandhi was driven by political vendetta. "He has been removed from the House for speaking the truth, fighting for the Constitution and for people's rights," Congress president Kharge said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Who is Rahul Gandhi, the Indian opposition leader disqualified from parliament?

The Indian parliament on Friday (March 24) disqualified opposition <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rahul-gandhi-convicted-in-2019-modi-surname-defamation-case-gets-two-year-jail-term-574899">Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a lawmaker after a court found him guilty of defamation</a> and sentenced him to two years in prison, according to a parliament secretariat notice. "Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023, in terms of the provisions of Article 102 (1) (e) of the Constitution of India read with Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951," the notice issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat&nbsp;read.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-defamation-case-live-opposition-meets-over-jail-sentence-575197">Click here to follow all LIVE Updates on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification</a>

On Thursday, the Surat court had sentenced Rahul Gandhi to two years imprisonment in the defamation case over his 'Modi surname' remark made in April 2019 during a Lok Sabha election rally in the state of Karnataka.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rahul Gandhi - Congress MP from Wayanad, Kerala - disqualified as a Member of Lok Sabha following his conviction in the criminal defamation case over his 'Modi surname' remark. <a href="https://t.co/SQ1xzRZAot">pic.twitter.com/SQ1xzRZAot</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1639187379629228033?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"How come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname," Gandhi said during the rally. The criminal defamation case was filed against the Congress leader by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Surat West Purnesh Modi.

Following his disqualification, Gandhi will not be able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence. 
 
As per Section 8(3) of The Representation of the People Act, 1951, “A person convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment for not less than two years shall be disqualified from the date of such conviction and shall continue to be disqualified for a further period of six years since his release.” 
 
The disqualification can be reversed if a higher court grants a stay on the conviction or decides the appeal in favour of the convicted lawmaker.

And Article 102 (1) (e) of the constitution states that if he/she is so disqualified by or under any law made by Parliament Explanation For the purposes of this clause, a person shall not be deemed to hold an office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State by reason only that he/she is a minister either for the Union or for such state.&nbsp;

<h2>Reactions to Gandhi's disqualification</h2>

The Congress party on Friday reacted sharply to Gandhi's disqualification from parliament by saying it will fight this battle both legally and politically. "We will fight this battle both legally &amp; politically. We will not be intimidated or silenced. Instead of a JPC into the PM-linked Adani MahaMegaScam, Rahul Gandhi stands disqualified. Indian Democracy Om Shanti," tweeted Jairam Ramesh, the Congress general secretary in charge of communications.&nbsp;

Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor said that he was stunned by the action against Gandhi and by its rapidity. "This is politics with the gloves off and it bodes ill for our democracy," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said that the party will hold a meeting at 5 pm to formulate a strategy as to how to proceed forward. "They (BJP) tried all ways to disqualify him. They don't want to keep those who are speaking the truth, but we will continue to speak the truth. We'll continue to demand JPC, if needed we'll go to jail to save democracy," Kharge said, the news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We've called a meeting of our senior party leaders at the party office at 5pm today. In the meeting, we will formulate our strategy as to how to proceed forward: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1639193482635153411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"The day Rahul Gandhi raised questions against Adani and&nbsp;PM, this type of conspiracy was started to silence him. It's a clear case of anti-democratic, dictatorship attitude of BJP govt," Congress MP KC Venugopal said.&nbsp;

The ruling BJP, meanwhile, has defended Gandhi's disqualification. Union Minister of State for Law and Justice S P S Baghel said that the disqualification was lawful and asserted that "everyone is equal before the law".

Speaking to the news agency ANI, BJP MP Vinod Sonkar said, "This is a court order, everyone should accept it. The court convicted him. The manner in which he insulted a community at the time of the elections...this has sent out a good message across the country."

"How can he (Rahul Gandhi) call the entire community "chor"? Freedom of speech does not mean defaming or insulting any community. He abused the OBC community, not criticised it. He is not even seeking an apology for his remarks. He also defamed the nation abroad," Union Minister&nbsp;Bhupender Yadav said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Indian parliament on Friday (March 24) disqualified opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a lawmaker after a court found him guilty of defamation and sentenced him to two years in prison, according to a parliament secretariat notice.

The Indian parliament on Friday (March 24) disqualified opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as a lawmaker after a court found him guilty of defamation and sentenced him to two years in prison, according to a parliament secretariat notice. "Consequent upon his conviction by the Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate, Surat in C.C./18712/2019, Shri Rahul Gandhi, Member of the Lok Sabha constituency representing the Wayanad Parliamentary Constituency of Kerala stands disqualified from the membership of Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction, i.e. March 23, 2023, in terms of the provisions of Article 102 (1) (e) of the Constitution of India read with Section 8 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951," the notice issued by the Lok Sabha Secretariat read. Click here to follow all LIVE Updates on Rahul Gandhi's disqualification On Thursday, the Surat court had sentenced Rahul Gandhi to two years imprisonment in the defamation case over his 'Modi surname' remark made in April 2019 during a Lok Sabha election rally in the state of Karnataka. Rahul Gandhi - Congress MP from Wayanad, Kerala - disqualified as a Member of Lok Sabha following his conviction in the criminal defamation case over his 'Modi surname' remark. pic.twitter.com/SQ1xzRZAot — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2023 × "How come all the thieves have Modi as the common surname," Gandhi said during the rally. The criminal defamation case was filed against the Congress leader by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Surat West Purnesh Modi. Following his disqualification, Gandhi will not be able to contest elections for eight years unless a higher court stays his conviction and sentence. As per Section 8(3) of The Representation of the People Act, 1951, “A person convicted of any offence and sentenced to imprisonment for not less than two years shall be disqualified from the date of such conviction and shall continue to be disqualified for a further period of six years since his release.” The disqualification can be reversed if a higher court grants a stay on the conviction or decides the appeal in favour of the convicted lawmaker. And Article 102 (1) (e) of the constitution states that if he/she is so disqualified by or under any law made by Parliament Explanation For the purposes of this clause, a person shall not be deemed to hold an office of profit under the Government of India or the Government of any State by reason only that he/she is a minister either for the Union or for such state. Reactions to Gandhi's disqualification The Congress party on Friday reacted sharply to Gandhi's disqualification from parliament by saying it will fight this battle both legally and politically. "We will fight this battle both legally & politically. We will not be intimidated or silenced. Instead of a JPC into the PM-linked Adani MahaMegaScam, Rahul Gandhi stands disqualified. Indian Democracy Om Shanti," tweeted Jairam Ramesh, the Congress general secretary in charge of communications. Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor said that he was stunned by the action against Gandhi and by its rapidity. "This is politics with the gloves off and it bodes ill for our democracy," he tweeted. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said that the party will hold a meeting at 5 pm to formulate a strategy as to how to proceed forward. "They (BJP) tried all ways to disqualify him. They don't want to keep those who are speaking the truth, but we will continue to speak the truth. We'll continue to demand JPC, if needed we'll go to jail to save democracy," Kharge said, the news agency ANI reported. We've called a meeting of our senior party leaders at the party office at 5pm today. In the meeting, we will formulate our strategy as to how to proceed forward: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge — ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2023 × "The day Rahul Gandhi raised questions against Adani and PM, this type of conspiracy was started to silence him. It's a clear case of anti-democratic, dictatorship attitude of BJP govt," Congress MP KC Venugopal said. The ruling BJP, meanwhile, has defended Gandhi's disqualification. Union Minister of State for Law and Justice S P S Baghel said that the disqualification was lawful and asserted that "everyone is equal before the law". Speaking to the news agency ANI, BJP MP Vinod Sonkar said, "This is a court order, everyone should accept it. The court convicted him. The manner in which he insulted a community at the time of the elections...this has sent out a good message across the country." "How can he (Rahul Gandhi) call the entire community "chor"? Freedom of speech does not mean defaming or insulting any community. He abused the OBC community, not criticised it. He is not even seeking an apology for his remarks. He also defamed the nation abroad," Union Minister Bhupender Yadav said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian parliament disqualifies Rahul Gandhi after court finds him guilty in 2019 defamation case