Court takes note of Irani's defamation case

A Delhi court on Tuesday took cognisance of the criminal defamation complaint filed by Bharatiya Janata party Member of Parliament Smriti Irani against Congress MP Sanjay Nirupam for allegedly using derogatory and indecent language against her during a debate on a private news channel.

"The case is listed for order on taking cognisance of the offences alleged in the complaint. In view of the law laid down... the cognisance of the offence under section 499 (defamation) and 503 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code is taken," Metropolitan Magistrate Jay Thareja said.

Taking cognisance of BJP's Rajya Sabha member Irani, the court asked her to have her statement recorded in connection with the allegations levelled against Nirupam.

Irani, who was present in the court, recorded her statement during which the magistrate asked media persons present there to vacate the courtroom.

"A prima facie opinion regarding summoning of respondent (Nirupam) qua the said sections shall only be made after examination-on-oath of the complainant," the court said.

The recording of Irani's statement in the court went on for about 45 minutes in which she reportedly gave details of the alleged derogatory remarks made by Nirupam against her.

The court recorded Irani's statement and slated the matter for February 7 for recording the statements of other complainant witnesses after the BJP MP submitted a list of some witnesses. While talking to media persons after the proceedings, Irani said as "the matter is sub-judice, I don't want to comment."

Nirupam had made the controversial remarks on December 20, 2012 during a debate on Gujarat assembly election results on a news channel.

Nirupam had also questioned the credentials of Mahila Morcha chief Irani to analyse poll results given her background as a TV actress.