Sanjay Raut and Maharashtra Minister Dada Bhuse appeared together before a court in Malegaon on Saturday, where a defamation case was filed against the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader
The defamation case against Sanjay Raut was on Saturday formally withdrawn. File Pic
Maharashtra Minister Dada Bhuse on Saturday withdrew a defamation case against Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut after he expressed regret in Malegaon court in Nashik district, reported the PTI.
Raut and Bhuse appeared together before a court in Malegaon on Saturday, where a defamation case was filed against the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader.
The case was on Saturday formally withdrawn. It related to corruption allegations published in 2023 in ‘Saamana’, the mouthpiece of Shiv Sena (UBT).
The dispute arose after Raut accused Bhuse of involvement in an alleged Rs 178 crore corruption case at the Girna Co-operative Sugar Factory in Malegaon, according to the PTI.
Bhuse, a leader of the ruling Shiv Sena and currently serving as School Education Minister, filed a defamation complaint following the publication.
Information incorrect
Speaking to reporters after the court proceedings, Sanjay Raut said he had made the allegations based on hearings before the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and information provided by party colleague Advay Hiray at the time, as per the PTI.
However, he stated that the information later proved to be incorrect.
Sanjay Raut told the court that he regretted his statements and apologised to farmers and residents of Malegaon for any confusion caused.
He also mentioned his ongoing health issues, explaining that he had difficulty travelling frequently to attend hearings, as per the PTI.
Case withdrawn after regret
Bhuse confirmed that both leaders informed the court they wished to end the dispute. He said Raut acknowledged that the allegation was false and based on information given by Hiray, who has since joined the BJP, the news agency reported.
“Considering the confusion among farmers and local residents, and in their interest, the claim has been withdrawn,” Dada Bhuse said.
He added that Sanjay Raut had apologised and the matter now stands closed.
Emphasis on political culture
Raut said that he and Bhuse share cordial relations and described the resolution as reflective of Maharashtra’s political culture.
With the apology placed on record and the complaint withdrawn, the defamation dispute between the two leaders has officially come to an end.
(with PTI inputs)
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