States » WestPosted at: Nov 4 2026 9:19AM


Pyare Khan files Rs 250-crore defamation suit over gangster Abu Salem meeting allegations

Nagpur, Nov 4 (UNI) Maharashtra State Minorities Commission Chairman Pyare Khan has filed a Rs 250-crore defamation suit against five persons for allegedly making false and defamatory allegations against him over his meeting with gangster Abu Salem during an official visit to the Nashik Central Jail.
The controversy erupted after workers of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal accused Khan of meeting the notorious gangster in jail and launched protests demanding his resignation.
The agitation took a religious turn when activists of the two organisations performed a purification ritual following Khan's participation in a Hindu religious programme.
Addressing a press conference, Khan's advocate said the defamation suit had been filed before the Nagpur Civil Court (Senior Division) against Amol Thakre, Vilas Patil, Shubham Adke, Gajendra alias Tiku Vijay and Lakhan Kurian.
Khan's advocate Anand Deshpande alleged that the five individuals had published defamatory posts on social media and made statements through certain news channels, accusing Khan of meeting Abu Salem.
He clarified that Khan's jail visit was part of an official tour.
The suit seeks damages of Rs 50 crore from each of the five respondents, with joint and several liability, for allegedly tarnishing Khan's reputation through false allegations and public statements.
Khan has challenged his critics to substantiate their allegations, stating that he would resign from his post if the charges were proved.
He maintained that those making the allegations must produce evidence to support their claims.
Despite receiving a legal notice, VHP and Bajrang Dal activists have indicated through their social media posts that they are unwilling to withdraw their agitation.
With the dispute now reaching the court, the matter has moved beyond political and religious protests to a legal battle.
The court proceedings and the response of the organisations and individuals named in the defamation suit are likely to determine the next course of the controversy.
UNI PK ARN
Tags: #Pyare Khan files Rs 250-crore defamation suit over gangster Abu Salem meeting allegations
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