Social media cannot be used to defame judges, says Delhi High Court!

Court orders removal of objectionable videos!

New Delhi – Every citizen has the right to objectively criticize judicial decisions and institutions. However, social media platforms cannot be used to defame judges or interfere with the independence of the judiciary, the Delhi High Court has observed. The Court further stated that making false and baseless allegations against judges could amount to contempt of court.

1. Following a building-collapse incident in Saidulajab, Delhi, social media user Dr. Kapil Kakar uploaded and circulated several videos on social media platforms.

2. The videos reportedly contained serious and objectionable allegations against judges of the Delhi High Court. In response, the Delhi High Court Bar Association filed a criminal petition against Dr. Kakar.

3. During the hearing, a division bench comprising Justice Neena Bansal Krishna and Justice Madhu Jain expressed strong displeasure and issued a notice to Dr. Kakar.

4. The Court observed that the allegations in question interfered with the administration of justice. It also directed Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and X to immediately remove the concerned videos.

5. The Court further ordered the social media platforms to provide details of the accounts through which the videos had been circulated, along with other relevant technical details.

6. The Court emphasized that social media companies cannot remain silent regarding such content. It observed that, in appropriate cases, platforms are expected to take action on their own initiative rather than waiting for judicial orders. The Court also warned that attempts to tarnish the image of the judiciary or undermine its independence would not be tolerated.