RSS defamation case: Rahul Gandhi arrives in Mumbai to attend hearing in Bhiwandi court

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi reached Mumbai on Saturday (February 21, 2026).

He will be appearing before the Additional Sessions Court in the 2014 RSS defamation case.

Earlier, former Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil had acted as Rahul Gandhi’s surety for bail. Following Patil’s demise, Rahul Gandhi will have to provide a new surety before the court.

According to the itinerary, Mr. Gandhi left New Delhi by Air India flight to Mumbai. From Mumbai he will be travelling by road to Bhiwandi.

It is stated that between 11 a.m. and 11.30 a.m., the Congress leader will be appearing at the Chief Judicial Magistrate court.

Thane police have further strengthened security in and around the court premises. Shops within a 100-meter radius of the court have also been closed as a precautionary measure. The heightened security comes ahead of the high-profile court appearance of the Congress leader.

After the hearing, Mr. Gandhi will be returning to Mumbai Airport by road and will be leaving to New Delhi by about 4 p.m.

(With inputs from ANI)