In a notable case balancing free speech with accountability, the Delhi High Court issued a stern warning to political commentator Abhijit Iyer-Mitra over his abusive and derogatory tweets aimed at women journalists associated with Newslaundry. The court’s strong remarks came during proceedings on May 21, 2025, after which Iyer-Mitra agreed to remove the offending posts within hours.

The Background: Journalists Seek Legal Redress for Online Abuse

The case stems from a series of social media posts made by Iyer-Mitra earlier this year, in which he allegedly referred to several women journalists in crude, sexualized terms—likening their workplace to a “brothel” and referring to them as “prostitutes.” These statements were made publicly on Twitter and received widespread criticism for their misogynistic tone and defamatory content.

In response, a group of nine women journalists, including Newslaundry’s Executive Editor Manisha Pande, approached the Delhi High Court seeking protection of their dignity and professional reputation. The suit filed by the journalists requested damages worth ₹2 crore, a formal public apology, and immediate removal of the defamatory tweets.

Court’s Response: ‘This Is Not Acceptable in a Civilised Society’

Presiding over the matter, Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav took a firm stand against the nature of the comments made by Iyer-Mitra. During the hearing, the Court stated that such language had no place in any civilised discourse, let alone in a democratic society.

The Court observed that while the right to free speech is protected under the Constitution, it does not extend to personal attacks that are vulgar, gendered, or degrading in nature. “This is not permissible in a civilised society,” the Court remarked, adding that a person who makes such statements cannot be heard in court unless they take immediate steps to undo the harm.

Iyer-Mitra’s Counsel Responds, Assures Compliance

Representing Iyer-Mitra, Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai acknowledged that the comments were “poorly worded” and inappropriate. He assured the Court that all defamatory posts would be removed from social media platforms within five hours.
The bench, while noting the undertaking, made it clear that further proceedings would be closely monitored to ensure compliance. The matter is now listed for further hearing in the upcoming week.

While Iyer-Mitra has not yet issued a public apology, the Court’s firm stance may push toward a resolution that reaffirms the rights and dignity of professionals targeted online.

Case Details:
Case Title: Manisha Pande & Others v. Abhijit Iyer-Mitra
Case No.: CS(OS) 234/2025
Court: Delhi High Court
Presiding Judge: Hon’ble Mr. Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav

Key Relief Sought:
•Removal of defamatory content
•₹2 crore in damages
•Formal public apology

Interim Order: Respondent directed to take down the offensive tweets within five hours; compliance to be reviewed in the next hearing