The Rajasthan High Court has stayed further proceedings in a defamation complaint pending in an Ajmer court against Drishti IAS founder Vikas Divyakirti. The case was filed over his alleged derogatory remarks about the judiciary.
A bench of Justice Sameer Jain passed the order while hearing Divyakirti’s plea challenging the Ajmer court’s decision to take partial cognizance of the defamation complaint.
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Ajmer Court’s Earlier Order
Earlier this month, the Ajmer court had noted “strong prima facie evidence” against Divyakirti, stating that he used “derogatory and sarcastic language against the judiciary” with a “malicious intent to gain publicity.”
The case relates to a video titled:
“IAS vs Judge: कौन ज्यादा ताकतवर है | Best Guidance by Vikas Divyakirti Sir – Hindi Motivation.”
The complaint was filed under:
BNS Sections 353(2) (public mischief)
The court had directed the registration of the case and asked Divyakirti to appear at the next hearing.
Court’s Observation:
“There is prima facie strong evidence that the accused, with malicious intent, used derogatory and sarcastic language against the judiciary, which includes judges, advocates, and court officers. The video sensationalizes the issue, ridiculing the judiciary and damaging its dignity, impartiality, and reputation.”
The court also expressed concern that such remarks could create “confusion, distrust, and doubt towards the judiciary” among the public.
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Vikas Divyakirti, represented by Senior Counsel VR Bajwa and advocates Sumeer Sodhi and Punit Singhvi, argued that:
- He had no connection with the YouTube channel that uploaded the video.
- The video was edited and published by a third party without his consent.
- The complainant lacked locus standi (legal standing) as an “aggrieved person” under Section 356 of BNS, since no specific individual or group was targeted.
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In his response to the show-cause notice, Divyakirti stated:
“I categorically submit that I have no connection, control, or involvement with the YouTube channel which uploaded the alleged offending video. It appears to have been extracted and uploaded by an unaffiliated third party without my knowledge or consent.”
he complainant claimed the video:
- Compared IAS officers and judges in a derogatory manner.
- Disparaged the judiciary and judicial officers.
- Hurt the sentiments of legal professionals and public trust in the judiciary.
With the Rajasthan High Court’s stay order, further proceedings in the Ajmer court have been halted until further notice. The case highlights the balance between free speech and respect for judicial institutions.