Delhi HC refers Gautam Gambhir's defamation suit against Punjab Kesari to mediation

The Delhi High Court has referred Gautam Gambhir’s defamation lawsuit against Punjab Kesari to mediation. The former cricketer and BJP MP sought damages of Rs 2 crore, with both parties showing willingness towards an amicable settlement. Gambhir had filed to withdraw the lawsuit, hinting at a friendly resolution.

Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma decided to explore mediation as a potential pathway for settlement, following Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai’s submissions on Gambhir’s behalf. The court has scheduled mediation for February 29, with a follow-up hearing on March 12. Last year, the court had denied an interim injunction in favor of Gambhir, against the newspaper.

Dehadrai argued that Punjab Kesari had been targeting Gambhir without seeking his opinions, claiming the articles were malicious and not objective. He cited potential attacks on Gambhir’s reputation, urging for fair reporting. Additionally, he highlighted the need for responsible journalism and fair treatment of public figures in the media.

The lawsuit filed by Gambhir alleges that Punjab Kesari published defamatory articles aimed at harming his reputation as a parliamentarian and a public figure. Reports were accused of distorting facts and misrepresenting him, leading to a fabricated and damaging narrative being portrayed. Gambhir demanded Rs 2 crore in damages and an unconditional apology from the defendants.

The lawsuit also highlighted the need for the retraction of defamatory publications and directives for fair reporting in the future. Punjab Kesari, its editor Aditya Chopra, and correspondents Amit Kumar and Imran Khan were named as defendants in the case. The court proceedings are set to continue with a focus on finding an amicable resolution to the dispute.