Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: St. Andre MLA Viresh Borkar has initiated legal action against Ajay Kholkar by serving him a defamation notice over alleged defamatory statements, accusations of financial impropriety and derogatory remarks made through media and social media platforms.
In the legal notice, Borkar has strongly objected to allegations that he had allegedly received ₹3 crore from another political party, terming the claims false, baseless and defamatory. He has also taken objection to the alleged use of insulting and abusive language, stating that the remarks were intended to tarnish his reputation and credibility as an elected representative.
The notice gives Kholkar **three days from its receipt** to issue an unconditional, unequivocal and public written apology and refrain from making further defamatory statements or allegations.
The notice warns that failure to comply with the demands could lead to criminal defamation proceedings, seeking punishment of up to two years’ imprisonment, along with civil proceedings claiming **₹6 crore in compensation** for alleged damage to reputation, goodwill and public standing.
Borkar has also reserved the right to seek applicable interest, litigation expenses and other legal costs. The notice states that appropriate legal proceedings may be initiated without further notice if Kholkar fails to comply within the stipulated deadline.
Emphasising that political criticism is an integral part of democracy, Borkar maintained that defamatory allegations and personal attacks cannot be justified in its name.
