The Delhi High Court has issued an interim order directing several media outlets to remove and block URLs of certain videos and social media posts containing defamatory content about Rajya Sabha MP Venumbaka Vijaya Sai Reddy
The court emphasized that if the media houses do not comply within 10 days, Reddy is entitled to request that intermediaries like Google, Meta Platforms, and X remove the content within 36 hours.
The court expressed concern over the spread of baseless rumors, particularly those that could harm the dignity of women and tarnish an individual’s reputation. Justice Vikas Mahajan highlighted that rumors, unlike facts, should not be circulated as credible information, especially when they have the potential to damage someone’s personal and professional standing.
The court has issued summons to the involved media houses and intermediaries, instructing them to submit their written responses within 30 days. The next hearing is scheduled for November 25.
Reddy, represented by a legal team including advocates Amit Agrawal, Sahil Raveen, and Rahul Kukreja, has filed a suit seeking damages and an injunction against the media houses for allegedly spreading false and defamatory statements about him on various social media platforms. The YSR Congress MP, known for his strong public reputation, contends that the defamatory content has caused significant mental distress to him and his family.
One media house argued that broadcasting a live press conference should not be considered defamation, asserting the need to balance privacy rights and press freedom. However, the court reiterated that freedom of speech is not an absolute right and that interim relief may be granted if the defamation is prima facie untrue.
The judge concluded that Reddy has presented a strong case for interim relief, noting that without such orders, the plaintiff could suffer significant and irreparable harm. The court ruled that the balance of convenience favors the plaintiff.
(With inputs from agency)
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