Whalesbook
Case Reopened Over Procedural Flaws
The Delhi High Court has canceled a previous order that had put a halt to criminal proceedings against Abhijit Iyer-Mitra. This move comes after Newslaundry journalists appealed, alleging Iyer-Mitra posted defamatory content about them online. The High Court determined that the initial order to stay the case did not provide sufficient justification.
Reasoning Gap Leads to Re-evaluation
Justice Girish Kathpalia observed that the sessions court's decision to suspend the case lacked any clear explanation. As a result, the case has been returned to the sessions judge to issue a new, detailed, and well-reasoned order. The court highlighted the importance of understanding the basis for any stay. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra and the journalists are set to appear in court on May 22. The sessions court is expected to resolve the issue within four weeks. The High Court noted that this decision did not assess the core accusations of the case, as it was reached by agreement between the involved parties.
Claims of Offensive Language
The complaint was filed by Manisha Pande and six other journalists. They allege Iyer-Mitra used offensive language and made insulting remarks about them on social media, including a specific reference to them as prostitutes. The initial magistrate court had found the remarks sexually suggestive and intended to insult the women, leading to charges under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to sexual harassment and insult to modesty. An Additional Sessions Judge had previously stayed this order on May 4, prompting the journalists' appeal to the Delhi High Court.