Delhi Court Halts FIR Against Abhijit Iyer-Mitra Over Offensive Comments Targeting Newslaundry Journalists

A Delhi court has put a temporary hold on its previous ruling that mandated the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against commentator Abhijit Iyer-Mitra. This came in response to his derogatory and sexually abusive remarks directed at female journalists working for the news organization Newslaundry.

In an earlier ruling on April 23, Judicial Magistrate First Class Bhanu Pratap Singh from the Saket Court suggested that Iyer-Mitra could face legal action under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, which address issues of sexual harassment and the insult to the dignity of women. The magistrate noted that a police investigation was warranted given that the alleged offense occurred in cyberspace.

Newslaundry’s Managing Editor Manisha Pande, along with several other female journalists from the outlet, had approached the court with complaints detailing the sustained use of disparaging language and slurs by Iyer-Mitra. Following the complaints, the court had instructed the Malviya Nagar Police Station’s station house officer to submit an action taken report, assessing whether any formal complaints had been lodged and what measures were taken subsequently.

By November, the police were given a final opportunity to present their action taken report, which was eventually submitted on February 18. The journalists then sought further judicial intervention under Section 175 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Act, indicating a persistent concern over the handling of their complaints.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by women journalists in India, particularly in an era where social media platforms can amplify abusive behavior. The legal system’s response to such cases is crucial in setting a precedent for how online harassment is addressed, ensuring that victims feel supported and protected under the law.

Source: scroll.in