The Delhi High Court issued notice to several defendants in a defamation suit filed by journalist Anjana Om Kashyap and TV Today Network against educator Faisal Khan, popularly known as Khan Sir, and others. The plaintiffs have alleged that a series of remarks made online about Kashyap were defamatory and damaging to her reputation.
Justice Neena Bansal Krishna directed that notice be served on the remaining defendants and scheduled the matter for further hearing on June 17, 2026.
Background of the Dispute
The dispute traces its origins to a public debate surrounding the NEET examination system. According to the suit, comments made during the debate regarding online educators led to reactions from several teaching personalities and social media accounts.
Kashyap and the network have alleged that various statements and posts used terms such as “bikau patrakar,” “chatukar,” “dalaali,” and “fake news dukaan.” They have sought removal of the content from online platforms and claimed damages of ₹2 crore.
During the hearing, counsel for the plaintiffs argued that the defendants had circulated “abusive and toxic” content and that some remarks allegedly crossed the line into personal attacks. It was also submitted that references had been made to Kashyap’s family members.
Seeking interim protection, the plaintiffs requested an order directing removal of the disputed content pending adjudication of the suit.
However, lawyers appearing for some of the defendants opposed the plea. They questioned the maintainability of the case and argued that specific defamatory statements had not been individually attributed to each defendant. They also contended that the posts were reactions to comments allegedly made by Kashyap during her coverage of online educators.
While discussing the matter, the Court orally observed,
“It is settled law that if it is derogatory, it has to be pulled down.”
At the same time, the Court indicated that all parties should be heard before any interim order is considered and noted that the defendants would have an opportunity to place their responses on record.
Declining to grant any interim injunction at this stage, Justice Neena Bansal Krishna issued notice to the remaining defendants and directed them to file their responses.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on June 17, 2026.
Case Title: Anjana Om Kashyap and Another vs Faisal Khan and Others
