Mon May 26 10:50:28 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

The Delhi High Court has issued summons to commentator Abhijit Iyer-Mitra in a defamation lawsuit filed by nine women journalists from Newslaundry. The journalists allege that Iyer-Mitra made “derogatory” and “defamatory” statements about them on social media platform X. While Iyer-Mitra has removed the content after being directed by the court, the plaintiffs are seeking further action, including an injunction, apology, and ₹2 crore in damages. The court has also sought the stand of social media platform X, while reminding Iyer-Mitra to be mindful of the limits of free speech.

## News Article:

**Delhi High Court Summons Commentator in Defamation Case Filed by Newslaundry Journalists**

**New Delhi, May 26, 2025** – The Delhi High Court has issued summons to commentator Abhijit Iyer-Mitra in a defamation lawsuit filed by nine women journalists from the media house Newslaundry. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav directed Iyer-Mitra to submit his written response and also sought input from social media platform X regarding the allegedly defamatory content posted on the platform.

The lawsuit alleges that Iyer-Mitra used “derogatory terms and slurs” in “defamatory, false, malicious and unsubstantiated allegations” made against the journalists on X. The plaintiffs are seeking an injunction against further defamatory statements, a written apology, and ₹2 crore in damages.

While Iyer-Mitra had already removed the allegedly offensive posts following a previous court directive, the plaintiffs sought further assurances against future transgressions. The court acknowledged Iyer-Mitra’s right to free speech but cautioned him to be mindful of the “laxman rekha” and the potential for speech to become defamatory.

Representing Iyer-Mitra, senior counsel Percival Billimoria argued that the content was not defamatory and that its removal was a gesture of deference to the court. He also requested an investigation into Newslaundry itself, which the court dismissed.

The court affirmed that its previous order to remove the content remains in effect, stating the journalists are free to approach the court again if similar objectionable content is posted in the future. The case is scheduled to be heard again in September 2025.

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