Did Saket Gokhale Just Apologize to Lakshmi Puri?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, Trinamool MP Saket Gokhale has publicly apologized to former diplomat Lakshmi Puri for his defamatory tweets made in 2021, following a court ruling that could change the course of his political career. What led to this significant apology, and what are the implications?
Key Takeaways
- Saket Gokhale issued an apology after a court ruling.
- The Delhi High Court mandated a compensation of Rs 50 lakh.
- The apology is a response to defamatory tweets from 2021.
- Gokhale's actions were deemed irresponsible and harmful.
- Legal implications include potential civil imprisonment.
New Delhi, June 10 (NationPress) Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale has formally apologized to former diplomat Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri, spouse of Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, for a series of defamatory tweets he posted in 2021 regarding her alleged overseas property acquisition. The apology was issued following a ruling by the Delhi High Court in July 2024, which mandated him to compensate Rs 50 lakh in damages for making incorrect and unverified allegations.
In a post on X, Gokhale expressed, "I unconditionally apologize for a series of tweets directed against Amb. Lakshmi Murdeshwar Puri on June 13 and June 23, 2021, which contained false and unverified claims concerning her property purchases abroad, and I deeply regret my actions."
This public apology was in response to the court's order for him to publish an apology in a national newspaper and on social media within four weeks and to keep the apology tweet visible on his X account for six months.
The Delhi High Court noted that the defamatory statements inflicted irreparable damage to Lakshmi Puri's reputation and restricted Gokhale from making any further defamatory remarks about her.
Furthermore, the court ordered that Gokhale's salary as an MP be withheld until the Rs 50 lakh was deposited with the court registry.
On May 28, the High Court questioned Gokhale on why he should not face civil imprisonment for failing to pay the previously mandated damages.
The defamation case arose from a series of posts in June 2021, where Gokhale accused Lakshmi Puri of acquiring property in Switzerland that was disproportionate to her known income sources.
He also involved Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in his allegations, leading to legal action from the former diplomat.
The court's decision in July 2024 concluded that Gokhale's statements were defamatory, awarding Rs 50 lakh in damages to the plaintiff.
Additionally, Gokhale was instructed to disclose all his assets, properties, bank accounts, and deposits in an affidavit within four weeks following contempt proceedings that commenced in December of the previous year.
The court characterized Gokhale's actions as willful and deliberate non-compliance with the judgment.
On May 2 of this year, Gokhale faced another setback when Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav denied his plea to overturn the July 2024 ruling, thereby affirming the original decision.
Point of View
The recent public apology by Saket Gokhale highlights the significant consequences of spreading unverified allegations in the digital age. It underscores the need for accountability among public figures, ensuring that truth prevails over misinformation. Maintaining integrity in political discourse is vital for democracy, and this incident serves as a crucial reminder for all.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the allegations made by Saket Gokhale?
Saket Gokhale accused Lakshmi Puri of acquiring property in Switzerland that was disproportionate to her known sources of income.
What was the court's ruling regarding Gokhale's actions?
The Delhi High Court ruled that Gokhale's statements were defamatory and ordered him to pay Rs 50 lakh in damages.
How long does Gokhale have to keep his apology visible?
Gokhale must keep the apology tweet visible on his X account for a period of six months.
What are the consequences of failing to comply with the court order?
If Gokhale fails to comply, his salary as a Member of Parliament may be withheld, and he could face civil imprisonment.
What does this incident signify for public figures?
This incident highlights the importance of accountability and the potential repercussions of spreading unverified claims.
