Medha Patkar Challenges Defamation Case Verdict in Sessions Court

Social activist Medha Patkar has appealed against a five-month jail sentence and Rs 10 lakh fine for defaming Delhi LG VK Saksena. The court will hear her appeal on Monday.

Social activist Medha Patkar has moved the sessions court to appeal the judgement in a defamation case filed by Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saksena. Sentenced to five months in jail and fined Rs 10 lakh, Patkar has been granted a month's bail to challenge the trial court's decision.

The Court of Vishal Singh is set to hear her appeal on Monday. On July 1, Delhi's Saket Court had sentenced the Narmada Bachao Andolan activist to five months of simple imprisonment. Additionally, Patkar was directed to pay Rs 10 lakh in compensation to Saksena. The court noted that considering her age and ailments, the punishment was not severe.

According to court documents, her request for release on probation for good conduct was denied. Advocate Gajinder Kumar, representing VK Saksena, stated that they do not wish for any compensation and will donate it to the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DLSA). However, the court maintained that the compensation should first be given to the complainant.

Patkar was convicted on May 24 for defaming VK Saksena. After hearing arguments regarding the sentence, the order was reserved for May 30. Post-verdict, Patkar asserted, "The truth can never be defeated. We are working for tribes and Dalits and will challenge this order at a higher court."

Saksena's counsel had earlier sought the maximum punishment for Patkar, while her legal team sought leniency considering her age and contributions. The defamation case dates back to 2001.

(With inputs from agencies.)