Priya Ramani's counsel concludes final arguments in defamation case

ANI
20 Sep 2020, 07:25 GMT+10

New Delhi [India], September 20 (ANI): Journalist Priya Ramani's counsel has concluded her final arguments in a defamation case filed against her by former Union Minister MJ Akbar and said that he client should be acquitted in the matter.

Representing the journalist at a Delhi court, senior advocate Rebecca John told the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Vishal Pahuja on Saturday that it is not defamation when something is said in good faith.

She the court that thousands of women participated in MeToo movement.

"Freedom of speech and expression is critical and intrinsic to democracy. Ramani was a small part of a large movement," she said.

The lawyer added, "I have proved my case and I deserve to be acquitted."She also said that her client has explained in good faith and what was disclosed was in public interest.

"The MeToo movement started in America and came to India in 2018. Ramani's credibility was assailed on the ground of delay. But, this is not a case that I initiated," the counsel of the journalist said.

During the hearing, senior advocate Geeta Luthra, who was arguing on behalf of Akbar, sought time for her rebuttal, after which, the court adjourned the till October 13.

Akbar, the former Minister of State for External Affairs, had filed a defamation case against Ramani for accusing him of sexual misconduct.

Ramani was the first woman to accuse Akbar of sexual harassment during the MeToo campaign. The allegations levelled against him forced him to resign from the Union Cabinet on October 17, 2018. (ANI)

Watch latest videos

News RELEASES

Publish news of your business, community or sports group, personnel appointments, major event and more by submitting a news release to Calgary Monitor.

More Information

null in null

North America

Section

Canada-US trade talks resume after Carney rescinds tech tax

TORONTO, Canada: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced late on June 29 that trade negotiations with the U.S. have recommenced...

US, India to ink 10-year Defence Framework by year end

Washington D C [US], July 3 (ANI): India and the United States of America have agreed to sign a new 10-year US-India Defence Framework...

Federal judge blocks President Trump's asylum ban at the Southern border

Washington, DC [US], July 3, ANI: A federal judge on Wednesday blocked United States President Donald Trump's asylum ban at the Southern...

US-Vietnam trade deal offers cautionary lessons for India, says GTRI Report

New Delhi [India], July 3 (ANI): A new trade agreement between the United States and Vietnam is raising concerns and offering key lessons...

US student visa applications have opened, says State Department official

Washington DC [US], July 3 (ANI): US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mignon Houston on Wednesday (local time) stated that student...

India is an essential partner, we want fair and reciprocal trade: US State Department's Mignon Houston

Washington DC [US], July 3 (ANI): US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mignon Houston on Wednesday (local time) said that India...

Canada

Section