Ravish Kumar versus Centre: Delhi High Court Challenge to Take-Down Order Relating to Adani Enterprises Content

Journalist Ravish Kumar moved Delhi High Court challenging a central government order directing the takedown of content critical of Adani Enterprises. The order was issued under IT rules/directions (possibly under intermediary liability framework) requiring the removal of content on the ground of defamation or sensitive information. Ravish Kumar argued this infringes freedom of speech and expression under Article 19, that procedural safeguards were not respected, and content should not be removed without giving opportunity to respond or for judicial oversight. The Court has admitted the petition. The matter brings into focus tensions between defamation law, governmental powers to order removal, and press/journalistic rights in digital media.