Defamation case—After missing 40 court dates, Kangana gets final warning
What's the story
A Mumbai court has given actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut a last chance to appear before it issues a non-bailable warrant in the defamation case filed by Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar.
The decision comes after Akhtar's lawyer, Jay K Bhardwaj, sought the warrant as Ranaut has been absent from nearly 40 important court dates.
The actor's lawyer Rizwan Siddiquee cited her parliamentary duties.
Case background
Origins of the defamation case between Ranaut and Akhtar
The legal battle between Ranaut and Akhtar dates back to 2020 after an interview in which the actor spoke about a 2016 meeting with Akhtar.
The lyricist refuted her claims and filed a defamation case, claiming her statements damaged his reputation.
The contentious meeting took place at Akhtar's home in March 2016 during a public spat between Ranaut and actor Hrithik Roshan over exchanged emails.
Legal developments
Ranaut's counter-complaint and mediation agreement
Ranaut later filed a counter-complaint against Akhtar, accusing him of pressuring her into apologizing to Roshan under undue influence.
In December 2024, both parties agreed to mediation but the process is yet to begin.
The session was scheduled for Tuesday with Akhtar appearing before the Magistrate's court, but Ranaut's absence delayed the case further.
Case status
Proceedings against Akhtar have been stayed
Meanwhile, the Dindoshi Sessions Court has stayed the proceedings against Akhtar.
While he appeared before the Magistrate's court on Tuesday, Ranaut was busy with parliamentary duties and couldn't appear.
The court has now asked Ranaut's counsel to file a response to Bhardwaj's application for a non-bailable warrant.