The Supreme Court of India, on February 6, 2025, provided interim police protection to Discovery Communications India officials in response to threats received following the release of their documentary on self-styled godman Asaram Bapu. The court directed authorities to ensure the safety of the petitioners and their right to operate without intimidation.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Justice Sanjay Kumar, and Justice K.V. Viswanathan heard the plea filed by top Discovery India officials. The petitioners cited rising threats and online abuse after the release of their documentary, Cult of Fear - Asaram Bapu, which aired on Discovery+.
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Senior Advocate Abhinav Mukherji, representing the petitioners, informed the court that employees feared for their safety. He stated:
"The police have done nothing. We went home and asked employees not to come to work. We also received a letter warning of a mass agitation. There is a 2018 guideline laid down by the lordships."
The petitioners contended that their documentary was based on publicly available records, court rulings, and witness testimonies, aiming to present factual information. Despite this, they alleged that threats escalated, culminating in a mob gathering outside their Mumbai office on January 30, 2025. Though police dispersed the crowd, no legal action was taken against the perpetrators.
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Taking note of the petitioners’ concerns, the Supreme Court issued the following directive:
"Issue notice returnable in the week commencing 3rd March 2025. In the meanwhile, we request the police authorities to ensure that the petitioners get to use the office and that no threats of physical harm are extended to them."
The court instructed the authorities across multiple states, including Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Delhi, Haryana, and Telangana, to take immediate action. Petitioners were also given the liberty to forward copies of the court's order to respective police authorities for enforcement.
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The petition was filed under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution, which allows individuals to seek legal remedies for violations of fundamental rights. The plea was directed against the Union Government (Ministry of Home Affairs) and state police departments, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention to prevent further threats and disruptions.
Background
Asaram Bapu, a self-proclaimed spiritual leader, is currently serving a life sentence in multiple rape cases. The documentary delves into his rise to prominence, criminal allegations, and subsequent convictions. Following its release, Discovery Channel and its officials faced severe backlash from his supporters, leading to safety concerns.
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The Supreme Court's intervention highlights the ongoing struggle between media freedom and potential backlash from influential groups. The ruling reinforces:
The right to free press and expression under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
The duty of law enforcement agencies to protect individuals from threats and violence.
The accountability of state authorities in preventing unlawful acts against media professionals.
The case is set for further hearing in March 2025, where the court will review the responses from the Union and state authorities. Meanwhile, Discovery Channel officials can continue their work under police protection.
The Supreme Court's swift action underscores the importance of safeguarding press freedom and ensuring journalists and media professionals can operate without fear of intimidation.
