Suraj Chavan, spokesperson for the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) faction led by Ajit Pawar, has responded to a criminal defamation complaint filed against him by activist and whistleblower Anjali Damania. In his official reply, Chavan contended that the remarks attributed to him were political in nature and constituted fair comment made in good faith.
Chavan argued that, as a political spokesperson, he is “duty-bound to defend his party and its leaders” and to respond to public criticism. He maintained that his statements were part of a political debate and should be viewed as an opinion, not defamation.
“The remarks were expressed in good faith and fall within the recognized exceptions to defamation,” Chavan said. “Specifically, they were an opinion respecting the conduct of a public figure—an exception clearly carved out under the law.”
Chavan Accuses Damania of Mischaracterising Remarks
Chavan further alleged that Damania’s application was “misconceived, frivolous,” and filed with the intent to harass him and misuse legal processes. He emphasized that criticism of public figures is a legitimate part of democratic discourse.
“As a social activist, Ms. Damania is not immune from criticism, political opinion, or public scrutiny,” his reply stated. “Her plea appears to be an attempt to suppress dissent and muzzle political opposition under the pretext of criminal prosecution.”
He also claimed that the comments in question, even if taken in their entirety, were made during a heated political exchange and were never intended to defame her.
“Damania has deliberately misrepresented my remarks, portraying them as malicious when they were clearly political,” Chavan asserted. “Strong rebuttals or unflattering opinions in a political context cannot be equated with criminal defamation.”
Chavan Seeks Dismissal of Complaint
Seeking the dismissal of the complaint, Chavan pointed out Damania’s own history of criticism against politicians and public figures.
“Having built her public persona on critiquing political leaders and policies, Ms. Damania cannot claim to be exempt from similar scrutiny,” he said. “Defamation laws are not intended to shield public personalities from political commentary.”
Chavan also highlighted the constitutional protection of political speech, citing past Supreme Court rulings that safeguard citizens’ and political workers’ right to comment on public figures—provided such comments are not driven by malice.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy began after Damania posted comments on social media criticizing Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s “pink campaign” aimed at women voters ahead of last year’s Assembly elections. Her remarks drew criticism from NCP members, and Chavan later made comments during a televised news debate that Damania deemed defamatory.
Damania’s complaint alleges that Chavan’s statements were unfounded, unrelated to her public work, and intended to tarnish her image as a whistleblower and activist.
