Bathinda, Jan 16: A special MP-MLA court in Bathinda has granted BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut permission to join legal proceedings virtually in a long-standing defamation case. The judicial order allows Ranaut to attend all future hearings via video conferencing, exempting her from physical appearances that would otherwise require significant police mobilization.
Counsel for the actor mentioned that she faces considerable safety risks, citing past incidents and a formal FIR regarding threats to her life. The legal team noted that the Bathinda civil and police authorities would have to make massive security arrangements if the MP had to appear in person, which often causes public inconvenience.
The legal battle stems from a 2020 social media post where Ranaut allegedly misidentified elderly farmer Mahinder Kaur as a protester from Shaheen Bagh. Kaur, a resident of Bahadurgarh Jandian village, filed the complaint after the actor suggested women were participating in farm protests for a daily fee. The court has now directed Ranaut to provide a formal undertaking that virtual appearances will not cause trial delays.
While the exemption provides logistical relief, the court mentioned that Ranaut must appear in person for the recording of her statement under Section 313 of the CrPC or if specifically summoned. Meanwhile, the complainant’s legal team has filed a fresh application seeking the surrender of Ranaut’s passport. The case is scheduled for further evidence and a formal reply on January 27.
