Defamation Case against Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi

In February 2025, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit filed a criminal defamation complaint against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi before Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court. The case stemmed from public statements made by Kejriwal and Atishi accusing Dikshit of accepting "Rs 30 crore from the BJP." Dikshit alleged these remarks were entirely false, highly defamatory, and intended to damage his political reputation during a sensitive election period. The court took cognizance of the complaint, noting there was sufficient prima facie evidence to proceed. The case marks a significant political and legal showdown between the Congress and AAP in the national capital, highlighting the intense rivalry and verbal hostilities that characterized the 2025 Delhi elections.

The Rouse Avenue Court has taken cognizance of the complaint and summoned Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi to appear before the court. Both leaders have been granted bail after appearing, and the matter is listed for pre-trial proceedings, including the framing of notice for charges.

The core dispute centers on whether Kejriwal and Atishi's corruption allegations against Sandeep Dikshit were factually baseless defamation under criminal law, or constituted legitimate political speech protected by the right to freedom of expression, especially given Dikshit's status as a public figure.

The case has exacerbated the bitter political rivalry between AAP and Congress, two key constituents of the INDIA opposition bloc. It has ignited public debate over the limits of political mudslinging and the frequent use of criminal defamation laws against politicians in India. Many analysts viewed the cross-accusations as harmful to the broader opposition's unity against the ruling BJP, while civil rights groups flagged the case as another instance of chilling political speech through litigation.