Non-Bailable Warrant Against Sanjay Raut Recalled Due to Hospitalization
A special court in Mumbai made a significant decision on Saturday, November 16, 2025, when it cancelled the non-bailable warrant issued against Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut. The development came after Raut's legal representative informed the court that the politician has been hospitalized and is in serious condition.
Court Proceedings and Legal Arguments
The legal drama unfolded when Medha Somaiya, wife of BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, filed an application seeking the non-bailable warrant against Raut. Her legal team argued that both Raut and his advocate had failed to appear for Saturday's proceedings and had repeatedly sought adjournments during previous hearing dates.
The lawyer representing Medha Somaiya told the court, "It appears that the appellant (Raut) is causing delay. Hence, issue a non-bailable warrant against the appellant." This strong stance reflected the prosecution's frustration with what they perceived as deliberate delaying tactics.
However, the situation took a dramatic turn when Raut's lawyer subsequently appeared before the court with crucial medical information. The legal representative presented evidence that Raut has been hospitalized and his condition is serious, prompting the court to reconsider its position.
Judge's Decision and Case Adjournment
Special Judge S R Navander carefully considered the new information and made a decisive ruling. The judge stated, "It is submitted that the appellant is hospitalised and serious. He has sought an adjournment. Considering the reason, application is allowed, NBW stands recalled and cancelled. Adjournment granted."
The court officially recalled the warrant and adjourned the case to December 11, giving Raut time to recover from his health issues while ensuring the legal process would continue at a later date.
Background of the Defamation Case
This legal battle stems from an appeal filed by Sanjay Raut challenging a magistrate court's order that had convicted him last year on charges of defaming Medha Somaiya. The case originated from statements made by Raut accusing the Somaiyas of involvement in what he termed a 'toilet scam' within the Mira-Bhayander Municipal Corporation.
The magistrate court had initially imposed a 15-day imprisonment sentence on Raut, though the punishment was immediately suspended to allow him to file an appeal. During this process, Raut was granted bail while his appeal moved forward.
In his appeal documents, Raut has argued that the magistrate court made significant errors in its judgment convicting him. His legal team contends that the court failed to consider various crucial aspects, including Raut's assertion that he was not responsible for the article published in Saamana newspaper, which the Somaiyas had referenced in their original complaint.
Raut's Previous Health Announcement
The hospitalization news comes shortly after Raut's public announcement last month regarding his health condition. The Shiv Sena leader had declared that he would be staying away from public life for the next two months due to serious health concerns.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Raut had explained, "As per medical advice, I have been instructed to avoid public appearances and gatherings for some time. I regret this deeply. I am confident that I will recover completely and, hopefully, meet you all again in the New Year."
This recent health development adds another layer to the ongoing legal proceedings and raises questions about how the case will progress once Raut recovers and returns to public life.
