Sitharaman Opposes Somnath Bharti Representing Wife In Defamation Case, Cites ‘Conflict Of Interest’
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has objected to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Somnath Bharti representing his wife, Lipika Mitra, in a criminal defamation case filed against her, citing a “clear conflict of interest.”
The objection was raised before a Delhi Court on Thursday during proceedings in the case filed by Mitra against Sitharaman over alleged defamatory remarks.
Mitra’s complaint accuses the Union Minister of making "false, malicious, and defamatory" statements about her and her husband during a press conference held on May 17, 2024, allegedly to harm Bharti’s electoral prospects during the Lok Sabha elections.
Sitharaman’s counsel argued that Bharti, being the subject of the allegedly defamatory remarks, should not be allowed to act as legal Counsel for his wife in the same matter. The Minister’s Counsel also stated that Bharti’s dual role raises a serious ethical issue and violates professional conduct rules. “He cannot appear in a matter where he himself is a central figure,” the counsel contended, requesting that Bharti withdraw his vakalatnama.
The Counsel further urged the court to consider referring the matter to the Bar Council of India for disciplinary action if Bharti refuses to recuse himself.
Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Paras Dalal adjourned the matter to July 16 after Bharti sought time to respond to the objection.
According to the complaint, Sitharaman, during her press conference, alluded to past matrimonial issues between Bharti and Mitra but deliberately concealed the fact that the couple had reconciled and were now living together. The statements, the complaint alleges, were made with the intent to harm Bharti’s public image and give an electoral advantage to the BJP candidate.
Previously
It is to be noted that on June 12, the Delhi Court had fixed June 26, 2025, for consideration of a criminal defamation complaint lodged by Mitra.
Pertinently, on May 19, the Delhi Court took cognizance of the complaint and issued notice to Nirmala Sitharaman, directing her to appear on June 12. The magistrate had observed that the proposed accused must be given an opportunity to be heard.
Case Title: Lipika Mitra v. Nirmala Sitharaman