Did the I&B Ministry Order Digital Publishers to Remove Defamatory Content About Adani Enterprises?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has compelled digital news outlets to remove content concerning Adani Enterprises due to non-compliance with a court order. This directive has implications for free speech and journalism in India.
Key Takeaways
- MIB has enforced the removal of allegedly defamatory content.
- Prominent journalists and platforms are implicated.
- The order underscores the tension between press freedom and accountability.
- Failure to comply could result in further legal repercussions.
- Adani Enterprises asserts its commitment to national interests.
New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has instructed multiple digital news publishers to eliminate content concerning Adani Enterprises Limited from platforms like YouTube and Instagram, citing non-compliance with a court ruling on the matter.
The ministry's notice highlighted that the content was deemed defamatory and required removal in accordance with a recent court order.
This order named several prominent journalists and media outlets, including Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, Newslaundry, Abhisar Sharma, Ravish Kumar Official, Dhruv Rathee, The Wire, Deepak Sharma, HW News Network, and The Deshbhakt, among others.
According to the notice from the ministry, "it has come to the attention of this Ministry that the ...(court) Order has not been adhered to within the stipulated timeframe. Therefore, you are directed to take appropriate action for compliance with the aforementioned Order and provide a report on the action taken to the Ministry within 36 hours of this communication."
This notice follows a defamation lawsuit filed by Adani Enterprises Ltd against journalist Guha Thakurta and others.
On September 6, the court mandated the removal of the allegedly defamatory content within a span of five days.
The content in question encompasses transcripts of YouTube videos, screenshots of posts on X, and images of journalists' profiles.
As the publishers failed to respond within the designated timeframe, the ministry has intervened.
The notice directs them to remove the content and submit proof of compliance within 36 hours. A copy of the order has also been forwarded to Google and Meta.
Earlier this month, a Delhi court issued an interim order favoring Adani Enterprises Limited (AEL) in its defamation case against certain journalists, activists, and organizations.
The company has accused them of disseminating content that it claims supports "anti-India interests." In its lawsuit, AEL alleged that the defendants, by aligning with anti-India interests, were continually targeting its infrastructure and energy projects, which are vital to the nation’s infrastructure and energy security.
The Rohini court also instructed the defendants to remove the defamatory material from their articles or social media posts; failing this, intermediaries (such as Google, YouTube, X.com, etc.) have been ordered to take down the defamatory content.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the delicate balance between accountability and freedom of expression. The I&B Ministry's directive, while grounded in legal enforcement, prompts a reevaluation of the role of digital platforms in maintaining journalistic integrity. NationPress stands firmly in support of responsible journalism that respects both legal frameworks and the right to free speech.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the I&B Ministry's directive?
The directive was issued due to non-compliance with a court order regarding allegedly defamatory content related to Adani Enterprises.
Which platforms are affected by this order?
The order affects content on YouTube and Instagram.
Who are the journalists mentioned in the notice?
Prominent journalists include Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, Abhisar Sharma, Ravish Kumar Official, Dhruv Rathee, and others.
What are the consequences for non-compliance?
Publishers must remove the content and provide proof of compliance within 36 hours, or face further legal action.
What is Adani Enterprises' stance on this issue?
Adani Enterprises accuses the defendants of publishing content that undermines India's interests and targets its critical projects.
