Bathinda, Jan 16: The ongoing defamation trial involving actor-politician Kangana Ranaut moved to a digital format as a Bathinda court approved her plea for virtual attendance. The decision follows claims from Ranaut’s legal team that her physical presence in Punjab creates high-risk security scenarios and logistical burdens for local law enforcement.
Kangana’s counsel told the court that she faces serious security threats, referring to an FIR about threats to her life and an alleged assault at Chandigarh airport. The defense team stated in their submission that enhanced police deployment causes public inconvenience and hinders the movement of other litigants on the court compound.
The lawsuit, initiated by farmer Mahinder Kaur in 2021, centers on a controversial tweet from the 2020 farmers’ protests. The post reportedly likened Kaur to a protester named Bilkis Bano and contained derogatory remarks regarding the motivations of those in the agitation. Despite the new virtual arrangement, the court noted that the actor must attend every session online and maintain a consistent legal representative in the courtroom.
The complainant has recently been granted permission to summon additional witnesses to support the fair trial process. As the case moves forward, the court continues to weigh a petition regarding the surrender of the MP’s passport. The court noted that Mahinder Kaur may summon additional witnesses as their statements may be important for a fair trial.
