The Delhi High Court has reserved its order on an interim application by Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha. He seeks the removal of online content alleging that he “sold himself for money” after switching from AAP to BJP. The court noted that the content appeared to criticize a political decision rather than violate personality rights.
Justice Subramonium Prasad stated that the distinction between criticism and defamation is delicate. He suggested that the matter might not require interim injunction based on personality rights. Chadha’s counsel argued that certain posts were defamatory, portraying the MP falsely.
Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar highlighted images showing Chadha being showered with cash. He urged for the removal of such content, claiming it damaged Chadha’s reputation. The court indicated that the issue raised might pertain more to defamation than personality rights.
The court reserved its order after hearing submissions on the plea seeking interim relief. Chadha had approached the court to protect his personality and publicity rights against unauthorized use of his identity online, especially after his party switch.
The case of Raghav Chadha joins a list of personalities seeking protection of their rights before the Delhi High Court. Notable figures like Gautam Gambhir, Sunil Gavaskar, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and several actors and public figures have also sought court intervention against misuse of their identity.
