Delhi High Court summons senior journalist Sudhir Chaudhary in defamation case

Delhi High Court has summoned senior journalist Sudhir Chaudhary in a defamation case brought by Vijay Sherawat, a volunteer of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), over an alleged broadcast maligning him as “anti-national”.

 

The case against Chaudhary arises from an alleged misidentification during a television programme he was hosting, with Sherawat claiming he was depicted as the one raising slogans such as, “Sansad Bhawan ukhad diya jayega... Nepal bana diya jayega.” Although Sherawat denied having made the statement, he alleged it was done by an unknown individual at a different event.

 

The complainant accused the respondent of publishing and displaying an image of a different person, as the difference between the two men could be discerned by anyone viewing the broadcast. He further complained of a lack of due diligence in verifying the details prior to its airing, as well as his absence of an opportunity to respond to the allegations.

 

CJP condemns alleged ‘anti-national’ remarks

 

The CJP has condemned the alleged misidentification, supporting Sherawat’s defamation lawsuit against the television channel and its host, Sudhir Chaudhary.

 

CJP Spokesperson Saurav Das posted a series of tweets stating that the organization would keep a close watch on developments in the case, questioning whether authorities would take action to ensure such “dutiful responsibility” in the future, and adding that it would be the youth who would ensure individuals occupying positions of power would be held accountable for similar actions.

 

Legal Affairs Committee Member of the CJP, Ratna Singh, called the alleged identification of Sherawat as “irresponsible and downright shameful”.

 

She added that it was obvious that the image used in the broadcast belonged to a different individual, and that it would be apparent to any viewer.

 

Defamation suit highlights threats made following broadcast

 

The defamation suit has also brought to light the alleged threats made to Sherawat after the broadcast went viral on social media.

 

According to the plaint, video clips of the defamatory remarks made by Chaudhary were shared on social media sites including X and Instagram immediately after the broadcast. Sherawat alleged that he was threatened, with one individual going as far as asking for his home address.

 

The complainant alleged that due to the lack of due diligence in the identification, the broadcast had defamed him, placed his life at risk, and caused him mental anguish and stress.

 

The Delhi High Court proceedings will determine the truth of the allegations made in the defamation suit and the actions of both the journalist and the organizations named in the case. The accusations made by the complainant must be viewed as allegations only, with due consideration given to the arguments made by the respondents.

 

The case has also raised questions in terms of due diligence, responsible reporting and the potential consequences of misidentifying an individual in a politically sensitive and emotionally charged environment.