Dehadrai Withdraws Defamation Suit Against Moitra in Delhi HC

Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai has withdrawn his defamation case against Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mahua Moitra in the Delhi High Court. Justice Prateek Jalan recorded in his order, “Learned counsel for the plaintiff upon instructions seeks permission to withdraw the suit, the suit is dismissed as withdrawn.”

Dehadrai had filed the defamation suit against Moitra, alleging that she made defamatory allegations against him in media interviews, branding him as “jobless” and “jilted”. During the hearing, advocate Raghav Awasthi, representing Dehadrai, stated that they were willing to withdraw the suit if Moitra refrained from making false statements against him. Advocate Samudra Sarangi, appearing for Moitra, agreed to obtain instructions on this matter.

Justice Jalan suggested that resolving the dispute outside the public domain would benefit both parties, and proposed that the lawyers from both sides collaborate to draft an order applicable to both. Awasthi then announced the unconditional withdrawal of the suit, to which the Court acceded.

In the defamation suit, Dehadrai sought directions to restrain Moitra from making defamatory allegations and demanded ₹2 crore in damages. He also sought orders against several media organizations and online platforms to remove defamatory content.

The case originated from allegations made by Dehadrai that Moitra accepted bribes from businessman Darshan Hiranandani for parliamentary questions, leading to a complaint filed by BJP MP Nishikant Dubey. Moitra subsequently sued both Dehadrai and Dubey for defamation, but her plea for interim injunction was rejected by the High Court.

During a previous hearing, the High Court expressed dissatisfaction with Dehadrai for speaking to the media about the case while it was pending. Justice Jalan cautioned both parties against making false statements, stating that he would not hesitate to issue injunctions if necessary.

The developments underscore the legal battle between Dehadrai and Moitra, highlighting the complexities of defamation cases and the importance of responsible communication in legal proceedings.

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