Sanjay Raut's Conviction Sparks Political Tensions in Maharashtra

Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut was sentenced to 15 days' imprisonment for defamation after a complaint from Medha Somaiya. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya alleged that their police complaint was initially rejected due to pressure from the former Uddhav Thackeray government. The court's ruling was seen as a victory for the Somaiya family.

After a court convicted Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut for defamation, BJP leader Kirit Somaiya on Thursday alleged police had complied under pressure from then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to reject a complaint from his wife against Raut.

A magistrate's court sentenced Raut, a Sena (UBT) leader, to 15 days' imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 25,000 in a defamation suit filed by Medha Somaiya. Raut was later granted bail.

Speaking to reporters, Kirit Somaiya said they had to go through a 28-month-long legal battle to seek justice after their police complaint was initially dismissed. Sanjay Raut had made multiple corruption allegations against the Somaiya family, which were never substantiated with documents.

(With inputs from agencies.)