In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has ordered journalist Rajdeep Sardesai to take down a video posted on social media platform X, where BJP spokesperson Shazia Ilmi was allegedly seen “abusing” an India Today video journalist. The Court, presided over by Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, emphasized that Sardesai had neither the authority to record nor to use the footage in question.
The legal directive comes amidst a defamation lawsuit initiated by Shazia Ilmi against Sardesai, his employer India Today, and several social media platforms. The interim order, which demands the video’s removal across platforms, seeks to prevent further dissemination until a detailed hearing on Ilmi’s plea for interim relief.
Timeline of Events:
– July 26: A contentious exchange occurred during a TV debate moderated by Sardesai on India Today, concerning the politicization of armed forces and the Agniveer scheme. Ilmi and Major General (Retired) Yash Mor participated in the debate, during which the alleged incident took place.
– August 9: The High Court instructed India Today and Sardesai to submit the unedited footage by August 12.
– August 12: A court session was held to commence the legal proceedings.
Following the court’s decision, Ilmi took to X to express her relief and gratitude, condemning what she described as a “political sting” executed to tarnish her reputation. “Now the political sting done against me by a political propagandist will no longer continue to cause the mental and emotional anguish I have endured all these days. Uparwala Sab Dekh Raha Hai,” Ilmi stated, thanking her supporters for standing by her during these challenging times.
