The Punjab & Haryana High Court recently granted anticipatory bail to Manjinder Singh, author of the book "The Real Reason Why Legend Died," in a defamation case filed by the father of late Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. Justice Sandeep Moudgil ruled that the book serves as a “legitimate personal account” of the singer’s life and does not amount to defamation or intellectual property theft.
Background
A criminal complaint was lodged by Balkaur Singh, Sidhu Moosewala’s father, alleging that the book and related online content contained defamatory statements about his family. The FIR, registered under Sections 451 (trespass), 406 (criminal breach of trust), and 380 (theft) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), along with Section 356(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), accused Manjinder Singh of tarnishing the family’s reputation. The complainant claimed the book disclosed private family matters, misrepresented facts, and harmed their public image globally.
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Justice Sandeep Moudgil emphasized that the translated excerpts of the book revealed no offensive or derogatory remarks against Sidhu Moosewala.
“Statements made are within the bounds of legitimate criticism… Every citizen is guaranteed freedom of speech under Article 19(1), though this right must align with reasonable restrictions under Article 19(2),” the court stated.
The judge noted that anticipatory bail decisions hinge on prima facie evidence, not broader circumstances. The court also highlighted Singh’s academic background as a professor, suggesting the book was written with scholarly intent rather than malice.
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Manjinder Singh’s counsel argued that the book was based on personal experiences and publicly available information, including photos accessible online. They denied theft allegations and stressed Singh’s close relationship with the late singer, implying consent to share personal details.
The prosecution alleged Singh stole a photo album from Moosewala’s residence and linked the singer to gangsters and the murder of Vicky Middukhera in his book. They argued this violated privacy and influenced ongoing murder trial proceedings.
Case Title: MANJINDERSINGH @MANJINDERMAKHA VERSUS STATE OF PUNJAB
Mr. R. Kartikeya, Advocate with Mr. Kartik Patyal, Advocate for the petitioner.
