THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, July 16: Health Minister Irfan Ansari has suffered a legal setback after a Ranchi court rejected his petition seeking exemption from personal appearance in a case involving allegedly objectionable remarks made against yoga teacher Rafia Naz.
The ruling was delivered on Wednesday by Special Judicial Magistrate Sarthak Sharma, who presides over MP/MLA cases at the Civil Court in Ranchi. The petition, filed on May 23, was dismissed following final arguments presented by both sides on July 5.
With the rejection of his plea, Minister Ansari is now required to appear before the court in person.
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Rafia Naz’s counsel, advocate Jitendra Kumar Verma, opposed the exemption request, arguing that since the minister’s official residence is in Ranchi — near the court — there was no reasonable ground to avoid appearing in person. A detailed hearing was also conducted on the defence’s plea for exemption.
Background of the Case
The case dates back to August 19, 2020, when Rafia Naz filed a complaint alleging that Minister Ansari had made derogatory comments about her attire during a television appearance on a private news channel. According to the complaint, the remarks not only harmed her reputation but also offended religious sentiments.
Ansari has been accused of outraging the modesty of a woman, inciting public unrest, and defamation. The court has taken cognisance of the charges related to defamation and insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace. Summons have already been issued for his appearance.
