The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in response to a defamation suit filed by NGO Justice On Trial. The NGO alleges that the BBC’s documentary on Prime Minister Narendra Modi has cast a slur on the reputation of India, its judiciary, and Prime Minister Modi.
Notice Extended to BBC (India) as Well
In addition to the notice issued to the BBC (UK), Justice Sachin Datta has also directed the BBC (India) to respond to the suit filed by the Gujarat-based NGO. The court has instructed that the notice be served to the respondents through all permissible modes. The case has been listed for further hearing on September 15.
Suit for Defamation and Insinuations
Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing the NGO, argued that the documentary has defamed India and the entire system, including the judiciary. He further contended that the documentary also contains insinuations against the prime minister. The plaintiff argues that the documentary has made defamatory imputations and cast a slur on the reputation of the country.
Supreme Court Dismissed Ban Petition Earlier
In February, the Supreme Court dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking a complete ban on the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and BBC India from operating in India. The PIL was filed in response to the airing of the documentary on PM Modi. The Supreme Court termed the petition as “absolutely misconceived.”
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