The Bombay High Court acquitted a man accused of rape, citing inconsistencies in the victim’s account and delayed filing of the complaint. The court emphasized that a woman of “ordinary prudence” would not agree to meet a man at a hotel for the first time. This ruling has sparked discussions on victim-blaming and consent.
The Calcutta High Court dismissed the case against the film “The Diary of West Bengal” on Thursday, citing a Supreme Court ruling on banning books or movies. Chief Justice TS Shivagnam emphasized that individuals have the choice to watch or not watch, and criticism is a right in a democratic society, stating that there are more pressing issues to address. The film’s director clarified that it was not intended to undermine the honor of Bengal and was based on factual information. The controversy arose following the release of the film’s trailer, which featured events in Bengal and characters resembling political figures, including a version of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
The Delhi High Court directed news channels and social media platforms to remove content alleging extra-marital affairs against YSR Congress MP Venumbaka Vijaya Sai Reddy. The August 8 interim order by Justice Vikas Mahajan aimed to curb the spread of unverified claims and safeguard Reddy’s reputation.
The Delhi High Court today criticized X Corp for not complying with the order to remove Congress leaders’ posts alleging journalist Rajat Sharma used foul language. The court emphasized the need for neutrality and due process. X Corp’s resistance was questioned, and the court accepted an ad interim request, while the interim relief application will be heard on July 11.
The Delhi High Court directed TMC MP Saket Gokhale to pay Rs 50 lakh in damages to former diplomat Lakshmi Puri for a defamation case. Gokhale was also mandated to publish an apology in The Times of India and on his X handle within eight weeks. The court’s order followed allegations of defamatory tweets made by Gokhale against Puri.
The Allahabad High Court, led by Justice Shamim Ahmed, has advocated for revoking the licenses of journalists engaged in anti-social activities like blackmail. This decision comes after a gang misused media credentials in Uttar Pradesh to defame individuals, posing a threat to journalistic integrity. The court’s decision emphasizes the importance of ethical journalism and regulatory measures.
The Supreme Court has sought deposition records in the defamation dispute between IAS officer Rohini Sindhuri and IPS officer D Roopa. Despite attempts at reconciliation, the court instructed the petitioner to provide a copy of the respondent’s deposition. The public spat between the officers resulted in criminal defamation proceedings and a subsequent stay order.
The Supreme Court bench, led by Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Misra, reserved judgment on the anticipatory bail plea of Kerala journalist Shajan Skariah. The case involves allegations of defamatory statements against CPIM MLA PV Sreenijin. The arguments focused on the applicability of the SC/ST Act and the journalistic integrity of Skariah. The decision is expected to set significant precedents.
Today, On 16th May, The Bombay High Court ruled in favour of Malabar Group, declaring an online campaign against the conglomerate as defamatory. The campaign misrepresented the group’s philanthropic efforts, prompting legal action. The court’s decision emphasizes the importance of responsible communication in the business realm and upholds the group’s commitment to social welfare.