Javed Akhtar Seeks Non-Bailable Warrant Against Kangana Ranaut

Introduction

Javed Akhtar, the renowned Bollywood lyricist, has filed an application seeking a non-bailable warrant (NBW) against actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut. The application was made due to Ranaut’s persistent non-appearance in court despite previous orders.

Background of the Case

The case originated from a meeting at Akhtar’s Mumbai residence in March 2016. During this period, Ranaut and actor Hrithik Roshan were embroiled in a public spat over exchanged emails. Akhtar, who is close to the Roshan family, self-appointed himself to mediate and asked Ranaut to apologize to Roshan.

Defamation Complaint

In 2020, Akhtar filed a defamation complaint against Ranaut. He took issue with remarks she made during a televised interview, describing the 2016 meeting in a way he found defamatory. Ranaut responded by filing a cross-complaint against Akhtar, but her proceeding was stayed by the Dindoshi Sessions Court.

Court Proceedings

Ranaut has repeatedly sought exemptions from court appearances, which have been rejected by both the Sessions Court and the Bombay High Court. On several occasions, she has failed to appear, prompting Akhtar’s counsel, Jay Bharadwaj, to file for a non-bailable warrant.

Recent Developments

On a recent court date, Ranaut was absent again. Bharadwaj argued that Ranaut’s repeated absences were intentional delays of the legal process. He emphasized that despite a previous bailable warrant, Ranaut had not shown a commitment to regular court appearances.

Court’s Directive

The court chose not to issue an NBW immediately but warned Ranaut to appear on the next hearing date, September 9, 2024. Her lawyers assured the court of her attendance on the specified date.

Legal Arguments and Positions

Bharadwaj highlighted that Ranaut’s application for permanent exemption from court appearances had been rejected multiple times. Despite this, she continued to file for exemptions and ignored court dates. Bharadwaj stressed that the issuance of an NBW was necessary to ensure her presence.

Court’s Stand on Previous Warrants

Previously, a bailable warrant was issued against Ranaut, which she had successfully canceled by appearing in court. However, her subsequent actions have shown a pattern of non-compliance with court orders.

High Court’s Dismissal of Petition

In February, the Bombay High Court dismissed Ranaut’s petition to stay the trial initiated by Akhtar. Ranaut had argued that Akhtar’s complaint and her cross-complaint should be heard together, but the court did not agree.

Details of the Defamation Allegations

Akhtar’s defamation complaint centers on statements Ranaut made during a 2021 television interview. She described the 2016 meeting in a manner Akhtar found damaging to his reputation. Akhtar alleges that her remarks were intended to defame him publicly.

Ranaut’s Counter-Complaint

Ranaut filed a counter-complaint against Akhtar, claiming that he had tried to intimidate her during the 2016 meeting. However, the Dindoshi Sessions Court has stayed her complaint, focusing on Akhtar’s initial defamation claim.

Legal Context and Implications

The ongoing legal battle between Akhtar and Ranaut has drawn significant public attention. It highlights issues of defamation, freedom of speech, and the responsibilities of public figures. The case also underscores the importance of adhering to court procedures and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Conclusion

The next hearing on September 9, 2024, will be crucial in determining the course of this high-profile defamation case. Both Akhtar and Ranaut’s legal teams are preparing for a significant showdown, with the potential issuance of a non-bailable warrant hanging in the balance.