Defamation case against Sobha Surendran posted to October 24

A defamation case filed by Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] central committee member E.P. Jayarajan against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) national executive member Sobha Surendran has been adjourned to October 24, after the latter failed to appear before the court citing election commitments.

The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court II here had earlier issued summons directing Ms. Surendran to appear in connection with the complaint. However, she filed an application seeking exemption from personal appearance through her counsel, advocate M.R. Harish, informing the court that she is currently engaged in an intensive campaign for the upcoming Assembly election from the Palakkad constituency.

The case stems from statements allegedly made by Ms. Surendran claiming that Mr. Jayarajan had considered joining the BJP. She had further alleged that businessman Nandakumar acted as an intermediary and that discussions took place at a hotel in New Delhi to finalsie the move, with Mr. Jayarajan himself assigning the intermediary for the purpose.

Mr. Jayarajan, in his complaint, contended that these statements were defamatory and had harmed his reputation.

Following a petition submitted through advocate Harish seeking exemption from personal appearance, the court accepted the plea and adjourned the proceedings.