The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to stay the release of the web series UP 77, which is reported to be inspired by the life of slain gangster Vikas Dubey, clearing the way for its premiere on the Waves OTT platform on Thursday.
Justice Sachin Datta, while hearing a plea filed by Dubey’s wife Richa, said the court was not inclined to interfere with the release of the series at this stage. The petition had sought an immediate stay, claiming that the show would cause her trauma and harassment.
During the hearing, the producers of UP 77 told the court that the series is a work of pure fiction and does not depict or draw from the life of Vikas Dubey. The High Court recorded this statement and directed the producers to issue a public declaration clarifying that the web series has no connection with Dubey’s life.
Richa Dubey had approached the court arguing that allowing the series to stream would unfairly impact her and reopen painful memories associated with her husband’s death. She urged the court to stop the release, contending that it would lead to mental distress and harassment.
After declining interim relief, the High Court listed the matter for further hearing on January 7, 2026.
Vikas Dubey, a notorious gangster from Uttar Pradesh, was killed in a police encounter in 2020. He was the main accused in the killing of eight police personnel in Kanpur. According to the police, Dubey was being transported from Ujjain to Kanpur after surrendering when the vehicle carrying him overturned. Officials claimed he attempted to flee, following which he was shot dead.
