The original defamation suit arose when Kejriwal, alongside Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Sanjay Singh, publicly questioned the authenticity of Modi's BA and MA degrees, which were reportedly obtained from Delhi University and Gujarat University, respectively. Gujarat University responded by filing the lawsuit, claiming that these statements were defamatory, aimed at tarnishing the university's reputation.
Kejriwal's legal team argued that his statements fell within the scope of public scrutiny, given Modi's position as Prime Minister. They contended that public figures should expect their qualifications to be examined, and such questions are part of the democratic process. However, the court was unpersuaded by this argument, noting that the defamatory nature of the comments went beyond mere political discourse.
This development marks another chapter in the ongoing legal battle between Kejriwal and the BJP. The defamation case, which had been stayed for some time due to the Chief Minister's appeals, is now set to resume in the lower courts following the apex court's decision. Legal experts suggest that this could open Kejriwal up to further legal scrutiny and potential financial penalties, should he be found guilty of defamation.
Gujarat University's legal representatives welcomed the court's decision, reiterating that the institution’s reputation had been unfairly maligned by the Delhi CM’s remarks. They emphasized that the university had duly provided records proving the Prime Minister's academic credentials, dismissing any claims of falsification.
This is not the first time Kejriwal has been embroiled in a defamation case linked to his comments about Modi. The relationship between the two political figures has been tense for several years, with Kejriwal often positioning himself as a vocal critic of Modi's administration. The Delhi Chief Minister's aggressive style of politics, which involves direct attacks on his political opponents, has led him into various legal challenges, many of which have stemmed from defamation claims.
Observers suggest that Kejriwal's persistence in raising issues about Modi's background, including his educational qualifications, is part of a broader strategy to position himself and his party as alternative voices to the BJP’s dominant narrative. However, this strategy has frequently led to legal consequences for the AAP leader.