Delhi Court Summons Wrestler Bajrang Punia In Criminal Defamation Case Filed By Wrestling Coach

A Delhi Court yesterday summoned the wrestler Bajrang Punia in a criminal defamation case filed by wrestling coach Naresh Dahiya alleging that certain allegedly defamatory remarks were made against him in a press conference related to the protests connected to the sexual harassment allegations against BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan.

“I am of the prima facie view that all the ingredients of defamation are made out. It appears that the statement made in the press conference was a result of malicious intent and was not made in good faith. In view of the same, let accused, namely, Bajrang Punia be summoned for the commission of offence punishable under Section 499 read with Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code,” Metropolitan Magistrate Yashdeep Chahal of Patiala House Courts said.

It is Dahiya’s case that Punia had made a reference about a rape case against him in Tis Hazari Court in which he was acquitted in 2019.

He told the court that the fact of his acquittal was well known and that a malicious attack was made by Punia to tarnish his reputation and credibility for the sole reason of dissuading him from supporting the WFI President in the protest.

“At the stage of summoning, it is fairly settled that the Court is not required to go into a comparative analysis of the possible defence that may be taken by the accused,” the judge said while directing Punia to be present on September 06.

“Let a copy of this complaint be sent to accused Bajrang Punia along with the summons, as contemplated under Section 204 Cr.P.C.

Put up for appearance of accused and further proceedings on 06.09.2023,” the court said.

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