Defamation Drama: Sanjay Raut's Legal Battle Intensifies

Sanjay Raut, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), contests his conviction and 15-day sentence in a defamation case by Medha Somaiya. The court suspended the sentence, allowing him to appeal, but his non-appearance at a hearing led to a delay. Raut denies the defamatory claims made in 'Saamana'.

In a significant legal development, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has challenged his conviction and 15-day jail sentence in a defamation case filed by Medha Somaiya, wife of BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, bringing the courtroom drama into sharp focus.

On September 26, Judicial Magistrate Aarti Kulkarni convicted Raut under IPC section 500, imposing both jail time and a Rs 25,000 fine, although the sentence was temporarily suspended, allowing for an appeal in a higher court. Raut's absence from the hearing led to an extension in proceedings, as his lawyer cited election commitments for the no-show.

The defamation case stems from Raut's alleged false accusations against the Somaiyas, including a purported Rs 100 crore scam, as claimed in the Sena-UBT publication 'Saamana'. Raut maintains he never admitted to authoring or editing the contentious article, despite allegations of tarnishing Medha Somaiya's reputation.

(With inputs from agencies.)