The Delhi High Court clarified that it does not intend to take any action against journalist Manisha Pande for her video remarks describing TV Today’s content as “shit.” The Court added it would not prejudice her professional career.
The Delhi High Court clarified that it does not intend to take action against journalist Manisha Pande for her remarks in a video where she described TV Today’s content as “shit.”
Justice C. Hari Shankar stated that his previous displeasure with Pande’s comments was meant to highlight that her language could have been more respectful.
He remarked,
“When we came across certain statements made by the journalist, which were, according to me, not in keeping with certain tenets of journalism, I made certain strong remarks… I am making it clear that I am not intending to act against the journalist or prejudice her career or any such thing.”
He emphasized that while the court acknowledges the role of the media in reporting court proceedings, the potential consequences of that reporting should be considered, as it can affect the pursuit of justice.
Justice Hari Shankar noted that parts of his comments were amplified on social media, leading to a barrage of hateful messages.
He expressed concern, stating,
“If that is the consequence, what will happen ultimately is that we will stop interacting.”
He reiterated that his strong expressions were a means to foster engagement and that a quiet approach might not yield similar reactions from the Bar.
Addressing Pande’s situation, the judge said,
“She may be a good journalist. This may be an aberration also. At that point, that was our gut reaction… You can tell the journalist concerned that she need not be worried about this.”
Although the case was not officially on the list for that day, the court requested the lawyers involved to be present for further comments on the matter.
Previously, the court had expressed significant displeasure regarding Pande’s remarks, labeling them as gross and disparaging, and warned that it might issue a ruling detrimental to her career.
The Court remarked,
“Are you continuing with anchor? She should be thrown out. She has no business being a reporter. She doesn’t know the basics. She doesn’t know the fundamentals of decency in reporting. We will make this statement in open court. We will comment on her personally. We won’t mind impleading her as a party. There has to be a limit to everything… We may pass an order which will place her entire career in disarray,”
These comments were made while the court was reviewing appeals from Newslaundry and TV Today Network in response to a single judge’s order rejecting TV Today’s request for interim relief in a defamation, disparagement, and copyright infringement lawsuit against Newslaundry.
During the proceedings, the court noted that not all of Newslaundry’s videos could be categorized as disparaging and has reserved its verdict on the appeals.
Back in October 2021, TV Today had approached the High Court claiming that Newslaundry had published videos and articles that damaged its reputation. According to TV Today, these publications contained “false, malicious and derogatory” statements against its news channels, anchors, and management.
On the other hand, Newslaundry maintained that its content amounted to criticism and satire, which is protected under the right to freedom of speech and expression.
In an order dated July 29, 2022, the High Court refused to grant interim relief to TV Today. However, both sides challenged that order. TV Today argued that the Court should have granted protection against Newslaundry’s content, while Newslaundry contended that the observation that a prima facie case existed against it could adversely affect its reputation.
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