The controversy began when Rahul Gandhi, during his Bharat Jodo Yatra in Maharashtra’s Akola district in November 2022, made statements about Veer Savarkar that many considered derogatory. Gandhi allegedly referred to Savarkar as a "British servant" and accused him of receiving a pension from the colonial government. These remarks triggered outrage, particularly in Maharashtra, where Savarkar is highly revered.
A defamation case was filed by Satyaaki Savarkar, a relative of the freedom fighter, accusing Rahul Gandhi of intentionally insulting Savarkar and attempting to defame his legacy. The issue escalated when Rahul Gandhi reportedly skipped multiple court hearings, prompting Satyaaki Savarkar to move the court for stricter action against the Congress leader. Satyaaki Savarkar has now formally requested the court to take strong measures, emphasizing the need for accountability and respect for national icons.
The Supreme Court has taken serious note of Gandhi’s remarks. In a recent hearing, a bench led by Justices Dipankar Datta and Manmohan strongly cautioned Rahul Gandhi against making further derogatory statements about freedom fighters, particularly Veer Savarkar.
“We will not allow anyone to make statements against our freedom fighters. Next someone will say Mahatma Gandhi was a ‘servant to the British’,” the court observed, calling Gandhi’s remarks “irresponsible”.
The bench also reminded Gandhi’s counsel that even his grandmother, former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, had praised Savarkar in official correspondence, and that Mahatma Gandhi himself had used the phrase “your faithful servant” in letters to the British viceroy.
The BJP has seized on the court’s rebuke, arguing that the stay on Gandhi’s summons is not a reprieve but a warning, and that repeated insults to Savarkar will not be tolerated. Gandhi’s legal team argued there was no intent to incite enmity, but the courts have made it clear that public figures must exercise restraint and responsibility in their statements.
The Supreme Court has stayed ongoing criminal proceedings for now, but has made it clear that any further derogatory remarks could invite suo motu action and more severe consequences. The court has issued notices to the complainant and the Uttar Pradesh government to respond to Gandhi’s plea to quash the complaint, keeping the case active and in the public eye.