Relief for Javed Akhtar as case comparing RSS to Taliban is withdrawn

Bollywood lyricist Javed Akhtar received a legal reprieve after a defamation complaint filed against him for comparing the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) to the Taliban during a 2021 televised interview was withdrawn.

The complaint, lodged by Mumbai-based lawyer and RSS member Santosh Dubey, was dismissed by the Mulund Magistrate Court on November 8, following Dubey's request. He informed the court that the matter had been resolved through mediation, leading to the case's closure and Akhtar’s acquittal under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code, which address defamation.

The controversy began in 2021 when Akhtar’s remarks during an interview drew criticism, prompting Dubey to issue a legal notice demanding a public apology and threatening a substantial claim for damages if the comments were not retracted. Akhtar did not comply, leading Dubey to file a criminal defamation complaint in 2022.

The Magistrate Court subsequently issued a summons to Akhtar, which he challenged at the Sessions Court. However, in March 2023, the Sessions Court upheld the summons, stating that the remarks had impacted Dubey's reputation among his peers and clients.

Over the course of the case, multiple hearings were adjourned, delaying proceedings. Last week, Dubey appeared before the court and sought to withdraw the complaint, citing a resolution achieved through mediation. With Dubey's withdrawal request accepted, the court acquitted Akhtar, providing him relief from further legal action in the matter.