Lawfare is a term used to describe the use of legal systems and procedures as a means of waging war or achieving political objectives. The conviction of former Congress Member of Parliament, Rahul Gandhi, for criminal defamation by a court in Surat is an example of the normalisation of lawfare in India because it is seen by some as a politically motivated action designed to silence opposition voices. This is because criminal defamation laws have been used in the past to target journalists, activists, and politicians who have criticized those in power. The use of criminal defamation laws to silence opposition voices is a disturbing trend that undermines the principles of free speech and democracy.
