Supreme Court Notice to TV Today in Ramesh Bidhuri Defamation Case
Court Declines Interim Stay, Sets Hearing for April 13
Delhi HC Earlier Refused Discharge Plea in Summons Trial
By Legal Reporter
New Delhi: March 10, 2026:
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The Supreme Court of India has taken up a petition filed by TV Today Network Ltd., challenging criminal defamation proceedings initiated by BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri and his nephew. The petition seeks discharge from the case and an interim stay on trial court proceedings.
A Bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna and Justice Ujjal Bhuyan issued notice but declined to halt trial proceedings immediately, signalling that the matter must be argued fully before relief is considered.
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Background of the Case
- Complainants: BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri and his nephew Rajpal Poswal.
- Accused: TV Today Network Ltd., owner of Aaj Tak and India Today.
- Allegations: Defamatory broadcasts and publications.
- Delhi HC Ruling (Nov 2025): Refused to discharge TV Today, holding that Metropolitan Magistrates lack power to discharge accused in summons-triable cases.
- Supreme Court Petition (Mar 2026): TV Today challenged the Delhi HC’s ruling, seeking discharge and stay of trial.
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Court’s Observations
- No Interim Stay: Trial proceedings will continue for now.
- Next Hearing: Scheduled for April 13, 2026, before the trial court date of April 16.
- Legal Principle: In summons-triable cases, once cognizance is taken and summons issued, Magistrates cannot discharge the accused.
Impact of the Case
- For Media Houses: Reinforces accountability in reporting and broadcasting, especially in politically sensitive matters.
- For Criminal Procedure: Clarifies limits of discharge powers in summons-triable cases.
- For Political Figures: Affirms their right to pursue defamation claims against media organizations.
This case will be closely watched as it involves one of India’s largest media networks and a prominent BJP leader, raising questions about press freedom, accountability, and criminal defamation law.
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