The complaint was filed by Mohd Tufail Khan, who runs an NGO and a madrasa named Jamia Arabia Nizami Welfare Educational Society
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — A court here has issued a summons to Suresh Chavhanke, managing director and the editor-in-chief of Sudarshan TV, and six others in a defamation case filed by a prominent religious scholar.
The case stems from allegedly defamatory remarks made by Chavhanke, which the scholar claims have caused harm to his reputation. The court directed Chavhanke to appear before it for a hearing, signalling the intensification of legal action in a matter that raises significant questions about journalistic responsibility, defamation laws, and freedom of expression in India.
The defamation complaint was filed by Mohd Tufail Khan, who runs an NGO and a madrasa named Jamia Arabia Nizami Welfare Educational Society, according to media reports.
According to a Bar and Bench report, Tufail Khan submitted that his society provides shelter, food and education to about 70 orphans.
Two years ago, scholar Mufti Wajahat Qasmi, reportedly close to the BJP, alleged that Jamia Arabia Nizamia was indulging in anti-national activities. These allegations were then telecast on Sudarshan TV.
Khan then filed a criminal defamation complaint against Qasmi, Sudarshan TV and its representatives, including Suresh Chavhanke, who anchored the programme having allegations against Jamia Arabia Nizamia, the report said.
Judge Kartik Tapariya of the Saket Court in New Delhi on October 18 found the alleged acts of the accused persons prima facie defamatory.
The trial court will take up the matter next in January 2025.
Sudarshan TV, known for its provocative and controversial content, has faced criticism for its alleged bias and inflammatory reporting, often sparking debates over freedom of speech versus defamation and responsible journalism. This case adds to the ongoing legal challenges faced by the channel and its leadership.
