Journalist Rajat Sharma of India TV files defamation suit against congress leaders in Delhi HC
- In Reports
- 02:17 PM, Jun 15, 2024
- Myind Staff
Journalist Rajat Sharma alleged before the Delhi High Court on Friday that Congress leaders Ragini Nayak, Jairam Ramesh and Pawan Khera defamed him regarding his use of "abusive language" during his show on the Lok Sabha election result day.
Sharma's legal representatives urged the court to grant ex-parte relief, requesting the removal of purportedly offensive tweets and videos about him on social media. They also sought an injunction to prevent political leaders from making further allegations against him.
The case was heard by Justice Neena Bansal Krishna of a vacation bench, who listened to arguments presented on behalf of Sharma. Following the submissions, the court reserved its decision on the interim request.
"The judge announced, 'Arguments have been heard. Order will be given in chambers,'" regarding the case.
Sharma, who serves as Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Independent News Service Private Limited (INDIA TV), attended the hearing. The dispute stemmed from allegations by Nayak, claiming Sharma verbally abused her on national television during a debate on the 2024 Lok Sabha election results day.
Sharma's legal representative argued that while the debate aired on the evening of June 4, coinciding with the election results day, the Congress leaders began tweeting about the alleged incident only on June 10 and 11.
Senior advocate Maninder Singh, presenting Sharma's case, asserted that a manipulated clip containing abusive language had been circulated, whereas the original footage showed no such content. He further screened the video clip in court for examination.
"The senior lawyer stated that no abusive language was used during the live show. He pointed out that six days after the broadcast, Congress leaders began accusing the anchor of misconduct. They held a press conference on June 11, despite not mentioning any abuse on June 4 or expressing grievance until June 10," Singh argued.
Singh further contended that as the programme was broadcast live, any allegations should have been raised sooner by friends, followers, or family of the Congress leaders. He suggested there might be a concerted effort against Sharma.
The lawyer urged the court to issue an ex-parte injunction, emphasising the journalist's personal reputation and the need for immediate legal action in such matters.
He requested that the tweets be promptly removed from social media, citing their detrimental impact on the journalist's reputation built over four decades.
"This was a live broadcast watched by millions. If the tweets remain online, they will continue to harm his reputation. The balance of convenience favours the plaintiff (Sharma), and the tweets should be taken down immediately," Sharma asserted.
"I am not known for shouting or abusing anyone. My reputation is based on my civilised behaviour," Sharma added during the proceedings.
Image source: India Today
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