**Supreme Court Dismisses Criminal Defamation Case Against Tharoor**
The Supreme Court of India expressed skepticism regarding a criminal defamation case against Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, stemming from his controversial remark comparing Prime Minister Narendra Modi to “a scorpion sitting on a Shivling.” During a hearing on Tuesday, the court emphasized that there are “more important things” to address, suggesting that the case may not warrant the court’s time.
A bench led by Justice BR Gavai was reviewing Tharoor’s petition to dismiss the defamation case initiated by BJP leader Rajeev Babbar in 2018. The court remarked, “What is in this matter? There are more important things,” as it postponed the hearing to the following week. Babbar’s counsel informed the court of a submitted reply, but the bench remained unimpressed, urging the complainant to focus on more significant issues.
The court indicated it would consider Tharoor’s case alongside another defamation suit filed by Babbar against AAP leaders Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi. When Babbar’s lawyer requested separate listings for the cases, the bench curtly responded, “Don’t tell us when to take up and how to pass an order.”
The controversy began in November 2018 when Tharoor made the remark that led to Babbar’s defamation claim, alleging that Tharoor’s comments were offensive to religious sentiments and damaging to the Prime Minister’s reputation. In October 2023, the Supreme Court issued a notice regarding Tharoor’s plea, challenging a Delhi High Court decision that had denied the cancellation of the case. Justice Roy noted that metaphors can convey complex truths succinctly, questioning why the comment had caused offense.
The Supreme Court has temporarily halted proceedings in the trial court, allowing Tharoor to avoid appearing while the matter is under review. The case is set to be revisited next week.
**FAQ**
**What was the basis of the defamation case against Shashi Tharoor?**
The defamation case was based on Tharoor’s remark comparing Prime Minister Modi to “a scorpion sitting on a Shivling,” which was claimed to offend religious sentiments and tarnish the Prime Minister’s image.
