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Synopsis

The Supreme Court of India, on Thursday, 6 February, granted interim police protection to the officials of Discovery Channel, who are allegedly facing threats following the release of the documentary series on self-styled godman Asaram Baapu.

The court passed the following order while dealing with a plea filed by officials of Discovery India in light of threats and criminal intimidation from groups claiming to be followers of Asaram Bapu after the release of the documentary series, Cult of Fear: Asaram Bapu.

A bench comprising CJI Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar in its order said, "It is pointed out that there have been instances across several states in the country, and hence, it would have been difficult for the petitioners if multiple writ petitions were to be filed.

The bench accordingly issued notice to the Union Government, the States of Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Delhi, Haryana, and Telangana.

"Issue notice, returnable in the week commencing 03.03.2025. Meanwhile, we urge the police authorities in the states concerned to protect the right of the petitioners to use their offices and ensure that no criminal intimidation or physical harm is extended to the petitioners, " the court added.

During the hearing, Senior Advocate Abhinav Mukerji, appearing for the petitioners, contended before the top court that the police had failed to take action in this regard.

Notably, the employees at Discovery Communications India filed a petition before the Top Court under Article 32 of the Constitution of India, seeking directions to ensure police protection for themselves, their colleagues, and other similarly situated individuals.

The plea further added that the said protection was sought in the wake of the threats and criminal intimidation from groups claiming to be followers of "Asaram Bapu, after the release of the documentary series on self-styled godman Asaram Baapu.

While highlighting that the series in question presented factual insights based on public records, witness testimonials and judicial records, the plea emphasised that after the release of the series, the alleged followers of Asaram Bapu threatened the petitioners and their colleagues with violence, hate crimes and criminal intimidation.

"On 30.01.2025, an incident occurred outside one of the offices of Discovery located in Mumbai, Maharashtra wherein approximately 10 to 15 individuals gathered outside its office premises and attempted to gain unauthorized entry. Upon being informed that they were not permitted to enter, the individuals contacted the local police and subsequently, the police arrived at the scene and dispelled the crowd but still failed to take any concrete action against the hooligans till date," the petition said.

The plea further noted that the petitioners and their colleagues continued to receive threats, forcing Discovery to enforce work-from-home arrangements for employee safety. It also pointed out that hate comments and threats against Discovery and its employees on social media platforms worsened the situation.

"......The actions of Asaram Bapu's supporters violate several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. These acts disrupt public order and safety, and the Petitioners fear further violence and vandalism. Discovery has gone on to formally request police protection from relevant authorities but responses have been inadequate. While some police stations acknowledged the complaints, others have failed to act....," the plea added.

Case Title: SHASHANK WALIA AND ORS. Versus UNION OF INDIA