In a gripping courtroom saga, the Delhi High Court is currently deliberating a defamation lawsuit brought forth by former NCB officer Sameer Wankhede against the series ‘The B**** of Bollywood’ produced by Red Chillies Entertainment.
The Delhi High Court on Monday resumed arguments in the defamation suit filed by former NCB officer Sameer Wankhede against the series The B**** of Bollywood*, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment. Wankhede alleges that the portrayal of a character in the series is clearly inspired by him and damages his reputation, particularly in connection with the 2021 Cordelia Cruise investigation involving Aryan Khan.As reported by NDTV, during the hearing, Senior Advocate Kaul, appearing for Red Chillies, defended the series as satire, stating, “Even if it is unkind or unjust, it is satire.” The High Court responded, “Yes, that is why it is satire,” but simultaneously acknowledged the possible bias rooted in the cruise incident, noting that the backdrop of the Aryan Khan case cannot be ignored.Makers argue fiction; Wankhede’s counsel says ‘mockery’ is evidentKaul argued that the characters are fictional and warned that entertaining Wankhede’s plea could open the door for numerous similar claims from producers, paparazzi, or anyone who believes a fictional depiction resembles them. Citing cartoonist R.K. Laxman as an example, he said satirical works often draw inspiration from positions of authority. The court, however, pointed out that Laxman’s works did not carry personal bias.Senior Advocate J. Sai Deepak, representing Wankhede, countered that satire must acknowledge its real-life basis. He argued that the series makes a “mockery” of Wankhede, adding that removing the contentious scene would not affect the storyline but would protect his client’s dignity.Threats, public ridicule, and ongoing investigationsDeepak also highlighted the multiple enquiries by the CBI, ED, and CAT referenced during the hearing, claiming that the series amplifies public hostility toward Wankhede. He presented online comments and threats, including those aimed at Wankhede’s wife and sister, and cited a review by Kamal R. Khan as evidence of reputational harm.He further contended that disclaimers in the series do little to influence public perception and may even strengthen the connection viewers draw.
Next hearing on November 26
The court will continue hearing the matter on November 26, with further arguments expected from both sides. Go to Source
