A Special MP/MLA Court in Lucknow on Wednesday concluded the hearing on a criminal complaint filed against Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, in connection with alleged irregularities related to dual citizenship.
The case, which stems from allegations made by Karnataka-based BJP worker S Vignesh Shishir, has drawn significant political and legal attention. Special Judge Alok Verma has reserved the order and fixed January 28 as the next date, when a decision on whether to proceed with the complaint is likely to be delivered.
In his plea, the complainant has sought the registration of an FIR and a detailed investigation into Gandhi’s alleged foreign citizenship status. The complaint invokes provisions from several laws, including:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) – India’s newly enacted criminal code
- Official Secrets Act
- Foreigners Act
- Passport Act
The precise nature of the allegations has not been made public in court filings, but the petitioner claims they warrant a full-scale criminal investigation.
Initially filed before the Special MP/MLA Court in Rae Bareli, the complaint was transferred to Lucknow following an order by the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court on December 17, 2025. The High Court allowed the complainant’s petition seeking transfer of proceedings, citing convenience and judicial propriety.
The issue of Rahul Gandhi’s alleged dual citizenship has surfaced sporadically in political discourse over the years, particularly referencing his past association with a now-defunct UK-based company. However, no charges have ever been proven in court, and Gandhi has consistently denied all such claims.
The current complaint represents a fresh legal attempt to initiate proceedings on the matter and comes at a time when Gandhi holds the post of Leader of Opposition in the 18th Lok Sabha.
The court is expected to pronounce its decision on whether the complaint merits further investigation on January 28, 2026.
