Court bars KRK from posting defamatory content against Vashu Bhagnani
What's the story
A civil court in Mumbai has issued an interim order restraining actor and film critic Kamal Rashid Khan (KRK) from posting any defamatory content against producer Vashu Bhagnani. The judge observed that KRK cannot use the freedom of speech argument to harm another person's reputation under the pretext of a review. The dispute dates back to 2021 when Bhagnani alleged that KRK had launched "a well-orchestrated smear campaign" against him.
Legal proceedings
Bhagnani's complaint and court's response
Bhagnani had approached the court over KRK's online posts and YouTube videos against him. The filmmaker claimed KRK's comments were "grossly defamatory, slanderous, and distasteful," and sought restrictions until his defamation suit is resolved. Civil judge Amit A. Laulkar ordered KRK to delete defamatory content but declined to demand an unconditional apology at this stage.
Judicial observations
Court's remarks on free speech and self-restraint
The court emphasized that "the right to speech of one person should not cause breach of the right of privacy and public image of another person." The judge emphasized that KRK should have exercised "self-restraint" while expressing public opinions. Bhagnani submitted he was "pained and perturbed" after learning that the critic had targeted him "without any due cause whatsoever."
Legal counter
KRK's defense and court's final decision
KRK countered the allegations, calling the case "frivolous" and based on "distorted facts." He said his remarks were part of his work as a reviewer and trade analyst, denying making personal attacks. After reviewing submissions from both parties, the court noted that Bhagnani's privacy appeared to have been affected by KRK's tweets and statements. It added that ongoing posts could cause "grave loss, mental agony to the plaintiff."
Career overview
Bhagnani's film production career and recent setbacks
Bhagnani, 64, has produced several successful Hindi hits over three decades, including Coolie No. 1, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, and Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein. However, his banner, Pooja Entertainment, has faced consecutive box office disappointments with films like Ganapath and the 2024 version of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.