Introduction:

In a legal twist, actor Kangana Ranaut has approached the Bombay High Court, requesting a stay on the criminal defamation case filed against her by lyricist Javed Akhtar in 2020. Additionally, she seeks the consolidation of her cross-complaint against Akhtar with the ongoing defamation case. The cases, originating from a 2016 incident, have taken divergent paths, with Akhtar’s case proceeding and Ranaut’s complaint stayed by the Sessions Court.

Arguments of Both Sides:

Kangana Ranaut, through her writ petition, contends that both cases stem from the same 2016 incident and should be heard together to avoid prejudice. She emphasizes the consolidation to ensure a fair trial. Ranaut’s argument is rooted in the notion that both cross-complaints, filed against each other, arise from a common incident, warranting a joint hearing. On the other hand, Javed Akhtar, in his defamation case, accuses Ranaut of tarnishing his reputation by dragging his name into Sushant Singh Rajput’s death during a 2020 interview. The ongoing trial under Sections 499 and 500 of the IPC has seen Akhtar asserting the need for the proceedings to continue independently.

Court’s Judgment:

The Bombay High Court, led by Justice Revati Mohite Dere, is set to hear the matter on January 9, 2024. The court’s decision will weigh the merits of Ranaut’s plea for a stay on Akhtar’s defamation proceedings and the consolidation of the cases. The resolution holds significance in determining whether the two intertwined legal battles will proceed together or separately.