In the ongoing defamation case involving Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, fresh details about Vinayak Damodhar Savarkar have emerged during court proceedings in Pune.
Grandnephew Confirms Mercy Petitions
During cross-examination, Satyaki Savarkar told the court that Savarkar had filed five mercy petitions while he was imprisoned in the Cellular Jail under British rule.
“It is true to say that Savarkar had filed mercy petitions five times while he was in the Cellular Jail,” he stated, adding that such petitions were not uncommon. “Not only Savarkar, but many political prisoners had sent similar petitions to the British government.”
Remarks on Cow and Two-Nation Theory
Satyaki Savarkar also addressed debates around Savarkar’s ideological views. He confirmed that Savarkar did not consider the cow as a divine figure.
“It is true that Savarkar referred to the cow as a useful animal, not a God,” he said in court.
On the controversial two-nation theory, he rejected claims that Savarkar originated the idea. “Savarkar made factual comments about the issue, but the original concept was proposed by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan,” he argued.
Defence of British Army Recruitment Appeal
Responding to questions about Savarkar’s stance during World War II, Satyaki Savarkar defended his call for Indians to join the British Army.
He said the move was strategic, aimed at preparing Indians for future independence. “The purpose was to provide military training and experience so that after independence, India would have trained forces to defend itself,” he explained.
He further argued that such decisions should be understood in historical context, adding that criticisms often arise from a lack of full understanding of Savarkar’s role.
Background of the Defamation Case
The case stems from a complaint filed by Satyaki Savarkar in 2023, accusing Rahul Gandhi of making “false and malicious” remarks about Savarkar during an event in London.
The court had earlier ruled that Gandhi cannot be forced to produce materials that could incriminate him. In 2025, the case was converted into a summons trial to allow a more detailed examination of historical evidence.
Debates Around Legacy Continue
When asked why Savarkar is not as widely glorified as other freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Satyaki Savarkar responded that differences in opinion are natural.
“Debates and differences of opinion are part of every great man,” he said, adding that comparisons between revolutionaries should be avoided.
The cross-examination in the case is set to continue on June 1, with the proceedings expected to further explore historical interpretations and political narratives surrounding Savarkar’s legacy.
