Court Upholds Free Speech in Defamation Case Over Inquiry Demand

A Delhi court dismissed a criminal defamation complaint by BJP MP Raju Bista against MLA Bishnu Prasad Sharma, citing freedom of speech. Sharma's inquiry demand into alleged corruption wasn't considered defamatory. The court emphasized the right to question public figures as a cornerstone of democracy.

A Delhi court has dismissed a criminal defamation case filed by BJP MP Raju Bista against fellow party MLA Bishnu Prasad Sharma. The dismissal underscores the importance of the right to freedom of speech and expression within India's democratic framework.

Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Neha Mittal ruled that Sharma's demands for an inquiry into potential instances of public misconduct did not constitute defamation. The court emphasized that raising concerns about public conduct is integral to democratic rights, especially when no direct allegations of corruption were made against Bista.

The case stemmed from accusations that Sharma's comments at a press conference could harm Bista's reputation. However, the court noted that the complaint lacked evidence of actual reputational damage, one of the defamation claim's essential elements. This verdict reinforces the vital role of questions and inquiry in democratic governance.

(With inputs from agencies.)