Court directs X, Google to remove content defaming Pawan Kalyan
What's the story
A civil court in Bengaluru has directed social media platforms X Corp, Google LLC, and Meta to take down content that allegedly defames Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Janasena Party president Pawan Kalyan. Acting on a case brought by Kalyan, XVI Additional City Civil and Sessions Judge Mohammed Moinuddin passed the order on June 11 against the tech firms and a group of unnamed defendants.
Legal proceedings
Legal action amid controversy over alleged land encroachment
The court's order prohibits the platforms and their representatives from publishing, republishing, broadcasting, transmitting, uploading, or displaying any statement, article, or allegations against the actor. The legal action comes amid a controversy over the alleged encroachment of lakes and public land in Janwada, Telangana, which has triggered criticism and discussions on social media.
Legal modification
Ad interim injunction granted earlier
On June 10, the court granted an ad interim injunction restraining the defendants from publishing or hosting any allegedly defamatory material against the Janasena leader. However, Kalyan later requested a modification of this order to explicitly include certain internet links and URLs where such content was being hosted. The court considered this plea and decided it was necessary to ensure that its earlier injunction had a practical effect.
Expanded injunction
Matter to be heard on July 24
The judge noted that the disputed material included articles, videos, and statements with several allegations, including those related to the encroachment of water bodies and public land. The court partially revised its earlier order to include specific links flagged by the veteran actor under the injunction. The case's next hearing is on July 24.