Delhi High Court Issues Notice to NDTV in Anil Ambani Defamation Suit

The Delhi High Court issued a notice to NDTV on Thursday over a defamation suit filed by businessman Anil Ambani, who alleges that the channel's reportage on cases registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) against companies linked to him amounts to defamation. According to Ambani's counsel, there have been 72 "targeted publications" against him over the past eight months, with his name being repeatedly highlighted despite being distinct from the entities under investigation.
The court did not pass any interim order, noting that issues concerning Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution and freedom of speech needed careful consideration.
Ambani has sought damages exceeding ₹2 crore in the suit, stating that any amount awarded would be donated to charitable causes.
The court has listed the matter for further hearing in July, with the next hearing expected to take place then. The court's decision will be closely watched, as it will have implications for the balance between freedom of speech and the right to reputation in India.