NEW DELHI: A trial court on Wednesday recorded the statement of former CM Sheila Dikshit's ex-political secretary who has filed a defamation case against Arvind Kejriwal for his alleged remarks against the Dikshit during protests over power tariff hike in October 2012.

The court also granted exemption to Kejriwal from personal appearance for the day after his counsel moved an application on the ground that being the chief minister he was engaged in meetings through the day and had no objection if the complainant's evidence was recorded in his absence.

"He has utmost respect for the judicial process and his absence in Wednesday's proceedings is not willful or intentional," Kejriwal's counsel said.

During the hearing, chief metropolitan magistrate Savitri recorded the statement of complainant Pawan Khera who testified that Kejriwal had used "foul and filthy" language against Dikshit in a television show in 2012.

Khera, former officer on special duty and political secretary to Dikshit, said due to Kejriwal's language, said his reputation and esteem as well as of others working with the then CM had been lowered in the eyes of public, friends and social circle.