Satire protected, but obscene attacks on Gaurav Bhatia cannot be permitted: Delhi HC

The Delhi High Court has observed that while satire and political criticism are part of free speech, obscene and sexually suggestive attacks cannot be justified under its garb.

Justice Amit Bansal made the remarks while passing an ad-interim injunction in favour of BJP spokesperson and Senior Advocate Gaurav Bhatia in his plea against allegedly defamatory and morphed posts circulated after a viral TV debate clip.

The Court stated that public figures like Bhatia must meet a higher threshold for defamation, as their actions are subject to greater scrutiny and criticism. However, Justice Bansal clarified that dignity cannot be attacked with vulgar or morphed content.

The Court held that while some of the impugned posts appeared satirical or hyperbolic and therefore required the defendants' response before any restraint could be imposed, immediate action was warranted against content that was explicit and offensive.