Did the Delhi HC Order the Removal of Defamatory Content Against J&K Deputy CM?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant legal decision, the Delhi High Court has ordered the removal of allegedly defamatory content targeting J&K Deputy CM Surinder Kumar Choudhary, marking a crucial step in protecting public figures from maligning information on social media.
Key Takeaways
- The Delhi High Court has ordered the removal of defamatory content against J&K Deputy CM.
- Justice Amit Bansal emphasized the need for immediate action.
- Choudhary claims the circulated material is fabricated.
- Social media platforms are required to disclose information about the sources of the content.
- The case highlights the critical issue of misinformation in the digital age.
New Delhi, Dec 16 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court has mandated the removal of content deemed defamatory and objectionable that has been disseminated on social media targeting the Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surinder Kumar Choudhary.
During the hearing of a defamation lawsuit initiated by Choudhary, a single-judge Bench led by Justice Amit Bansal noted that the circumstances surrounding the content necessitated prompt action at this preliminary stage. Choudhary's lawsuit requested orders to eliminate videos and posts that allegedly depict him in an inappropriate telephonic conversation with a woman.
The Deputy Chief Minister has asserted that the circulated material is fabricated, defamatory, and specifically intended to tarnish his public reputation.
Previously, on December 9, the Delhi High Court instructed Choudhary to include the individuals and entities responsible for posting the alleged defamatory content on social media as parties in the case.
The issue was revisited on Tuesday after Justice Bansal granted Choudhary's request to expedite the hearing, which was originally set for January 13, 2026. Choudhary denied any association with the audio or video content, arguing that the intent was to falsely suggest that the male voice in the audio was his.
He further contended that the dissemination of such content was designed to undermine his reputation.
The Delhi High Court had previously instructed social media platforms, including Meta and Google, to provide details regarding the Facebook pages and YouTube channels that uploaded the contentious videos.
The defamation case is scheduled for further consideration in April 2026.
Choudhary, a prominent member of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, is presently the ninth Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.
He represents the Nowshera constituency in the Legislative Assembly and has a history of serving in the Legislative Council. Choudhary was previously affiliated with the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the implications of this ruling. The Delhi High Court's action underscores the need for accountability in the digital space, where misinformation can have dire consequences. Upholding the integrity of public figures while balancing freedom of expression is a delicate task that requires our continuous attention.
NationPress
17/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the Delhi HC's order?
The Delhi High Court ordered the removal of content against Surinder Kumar Choudhary due to its allegedly defamatory nature and its potential impact on his public image.
What are the contents of the alleged defamatory material?
The material allegedly includes videos and posts suggesting inappropriate conversations involving Choudhary, which he claims are fabricated.
What actions were taken by the court regarding social media platforms?
The Delhi High Court directed social media intermediaries like Meta and Google to disclose details about the pages and channels that uploaded the defamatory videos.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The defamation suit is set for further hearing in April 2026.
