Rahul Gandhi's defamation case in 'Modi' surname case put on hold by Supreme Court

• Supreme Court today stayed the conviction of Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi in the criminal defamation case against him for his 'Modi surname' remark
• Abhishek Manu Singhvi represents Rahul Gandhi, highlighting the lack of evidence despite completion of the trial
• Singhvi emphasizes that the complainant had changed his original surname, and none of the individuals named in Gandhi's speech have taken legal action against him

Rahul Gandhi's legal battle in the defamation case took center stage in the Supreme Court, where his lawyer argued that this is his "last chance" to secure acquittal, enabling him to participate in parliamentary sessions and electoral contests. Rahul Gandhi's defamation case in 'Modi' surname case put on hold by Supreme Court. 

The Congress leader is facing a criminal defamation case over his 'Modi-thieves' remark, which resulted in his conviction. Seeking a stay on the conviction, Rahul Gandhi's counsel, Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, emphasized that despite the completion of the trial, there is no substantial evidence against Mr. Gandhi. The Gujarat High Court's refusal to stay the conviction has already led to the loss of two parliamentary sessions for Rahul Gandhi, a point highlighted during the hearing.

During the proceedings, Singhvi pointed out that the complainant, Purnesh Modi, had changed his original surname and that the persons named by Rahul Gandhi in his speech had not taken any legal action against him.

The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai, PS Narasimha, and Sanjay Kumar, presided over the hearing, with Justice Gavai indicating that an exceptional case for a stay on conviction must be presented. Singhvi clarified that the argument on conviction was not the focus of the day's proceedings.

The case has garnered significant attention as it revolves around the usage of the term "Modi-thieves," and the plea for acquittal could have implications on Rahul Gandhi's political career.