PM Modi documentary row: Delhi HC summons BBC in defamation case
1 min read . Updated: 22 May 2023, 11:39 AM IST
PremiumBesides the BBC (UK), Justice Sachin Datta also issued notice to the BBC (India) seeking its response on the suit filed by Gujarat-based NGO Justice for Trial.
The Delhi High Court on Monday summoned the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) in a defamation suit claiming that its two-part documentary titled 'India: The Modi Question' cast a slur on the reputation of India, its judiciary as well as Prime Minister himself.
Besides the BBC (UK), Justice Sachin Datta also issued notice to the BBC (India) seeking its response on the suit filed by Gujarat-based NGO Justice for Trial, PTI reported.
The plea said BBC (India) is the local operation office and BBC (UK) has released the documentary -- "India: The Modi Question" -- which has two episodes.
Senior advocate Harish Salve, appearing for the NGO, said the suit for defamation against the BBC is in relation to the documentary which has "defamed" India and the whole system including the judiciary.
He contended that the documentary also makes insinuations against the prime minister. It was argued on behalf of the plaintiff that the documentary makes defamatory imputation and cast slur on the reputation of the country.
The high court said, "Issue notice to the respondents through all permissible modes" and listed it for further hearing on September 15.
(With PTI inputs)