The Gujarat government has moved the High Court to appeal the acquittal of AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava regarding a 2019 controversial WhatsApp message.

Key Takeaways

  • Gujarat government appeals the acquittal of AAP MLA Chaitar Vasava.
  • The case involves a 'sexually-coloured' WhatsApp message from 2019.
  • High Court condoned the delay in filing the revision application.

The Gujarat government has officially moved the High Court to challenge the acquittal of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Chaitar Vasava. The legal battle stems from a 2019 incident involving an allegedly 'sexually-coloured' message sent within a large WhatsApp group.

Vasava, a prominent tribal leader and current AAP state working president, was acquitted by a trial court in 2023, a decision that was subsequently upheld by the Rajpipla Sessions Court in February 2026. However, the state government is now refusing to let the matter rest, seeking a fresh judicial review of the acquittal.

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Historical Background

The incident dates back to October 2019, involving a WhatsApp group named 'Best Buddies in Life' in the Narmada district. At the time, Vasava was an organizer for the Bharatiya Tribal Party (BTP). A complaint was filed alleging that a message originating from his mobile number was sexually offensive. Despite extensive investigation, the prosecution struggled to link the specific device and mobile number to the content of the message with absolute certainty.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this case highlights the critical importance of forensic integrity and the stringent requirements of the Indian Evidence Act. For a political leader like Vasava, who is already facing incarceration in a separate forest official intimidation case, this legal challenge adds a significant layer of complexity to his political survival and the AAP's standing in Gujarat.

The inability to satisfy Section 65-B requirements for electronic evidence remains a recurring vulnerability in modern criminal prosecutions.

The High Court has condoned the delay in the state's filing, accepting the explanation that internal government approval processes caused the lapse. The merits of the case are expected to be heard in September.

Did You Know?: In Indian law, electronic evidence must be accompanied by a specific certificate under Section 65-B to be admissible in court.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why was Chaitar Vasava acquitted previously?
The courts found gaps in the chain of evidence, noting that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the message was sent from Vasava's specific device.

2. What is the current status of Chaitar Vasava?
He is currently in jail following a June 2026 conviction in a separate case involving the intimidation of forest officials.