Case Note & Summary
The applicant, T. Rangaraj, filed a suit seeking permanent injunction and other reliefs against the respondent, Ms. Joy Crizildaa, and John Doe/s, alleging that the respondent made false, malicious, and defamatory posts on Instagram on specific dates in July and August 2025, which disparaged his personality rights, character, personal life, professional standing, and reputation in the hospitality and entertainment sectors. The applicant also filed an application for interim injunction to restrain the respondent from continuing such publications and to remove the existing posts. The court, after hearing senior counsel for both sides, examined the pleadings and the nature of the content. The court noted that the applicant had a prima facie case, the balance of convenience was in his favor, and irreparable loss would be caused if the injunction was not granted. Consequently, the court allowed the applications, granting an interim injunction as prayed, pending disposal of the suit.
Headnote
A) Personality Rights - Defamation - Interim Injunction - The court considered whether the applicant established a prima facie case for protection of his personality rights and reputation against alleged defamatory social media posts by the respondent. The court held that the applicant made out a prima facie case and the balance of convenience was in his favor, granting interim injunction. (Paras 1-45)
Issue of Consideration
Whether the applicant is entitled to an interim injunction restraining the respondent from publishing defamatory content on social media platforms pending disposal of the suit.
Final Decision
The court allowed O.A. No.948 of 2025 and A. No.4798 of 2025, granting an interim injunction restraining the respondent from publishing defamatory material and directing removal of the existing posts, pending disposal of the suit.
Law Points
- Personality rights
- Defamation
- Interim injunction
- Balance of convenience
- Irreparable loss
- Prima facie case
