Delhi High Court Upholds Medha Patkar's Conviction In Defamation Case Filed By Delhi LG VK Saxena

The Delhi High Court has upheld the conviction of activist Medha Patkar in a 2000 defamation case filed by current Delhi LG VK Saxena.

The press note by Patkar, which alleged Saxena’s involvement in hawala dealings and questioned his patriotism, was held defamatory and damaging to his reputation. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma observed that Patkar’s statements exceeded fair criticism and damaged Saxena’s reputation. 

The court held that freedom of speech is not absolute and does not permit slanderous or defamatory remarks under the guise of activism. 

[Medha Patkar v V.K. Saxena]