Hearing Now Scheduled for March 16 in High-Profile Defamation Case
New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Tuesday advanced the hearing of an appeal filed by former Union Minister and journalist M.J. Akbar challenging the acquittal of journalist Priya Ramani in a criminal defamation case linked to sexual harassment allegations.
Originally listed for May 7, the matter will now be heard on March 16, following an application by Akbar seeking an early hearing. The case was briefly taken up by Justice Ravinder Dudeja, with senior advocate Rajiv Nayar appearing on behalf of Akbar.
Background of the Case
The appeal stems from a 2021 trial court judgment that acquitted Priya Ramani of criminal defamation charges. Ramani had accused Akbar of sexual harassment during India’s #MeToo movement, allegations that Akbar denied and subsequently challenged through a defamation complaint.
In its landmark ruling, the trial court held that a woman has the right to put forth allegations of sexual harassment, even against a person of high social or professional standing. The court observed that “the right of reputation cannot be protected at the cost of the right to dignity of a woman”, a finding that drew widespread public and legal attention.
Why This Hearing Matters
- The case sits at the intersection of defamation law and women’s rights
- It is considered a significant judicial moment for #MeToo jurisprudence in India
- The High Court’s decision could have broader implications for how courts balance reputation versus freedom of expression and dignity
With the hearing now advanced, legal observers and civil society groups are closely watching how the High Court will examine the trial court’s reasoning and whether it upholds or revisits the precedent set in 2021.