Wikipedia has received a strong warning from the Delhi High Court for disobeying an order to identify the persons who made edits to the Asian News International (ANI) page. ANI had sued Wikipedia for defamation, claiming that some revisions to the news agency's page painted it as a "propaganda tool" for the present Indian government, harming the agency's reputation. ANI requested that these alterations be taken down in addition to receiving financial damages for defamation.
Despite the court's previous order to disclose the identities of the individuals who made these defamatory edits, Wikipedia argued that it operates on the principle of anonymity and requested more time to comply, citing its status as a non-Indian entity. However, the court, led by Justice Navin Chawla, strongly criticized Wikipedia for this stance, warning that failure to comply could lead to the site being blocked in India. Justice Chawla commented that Wikipedia, as a benefit supplier, dangers losing its secure harbor assurances beneath Indian law on the off chance that it proceeds to shield clients who make defamatory alters.
The court emphasized that Wikipedia cannot act as a stage that permits defamatory substance to be distributed without responsibility. The another hearing is planned for October 25, 2024, and Wikipedia was requested to guarantee that a agent is display in court to address these issues.
This case highlights the developing pressure between web stages, secrecy, and responsibility, particularly when the stages are utilized to have or convey possibly defamatory content​
TAGS: Delhi High Court Wikipedia ANI defamation Wikipedia edits safe harbor protection anonymous editors court order online defamation platform accountability contempt of court India legal news Justice Navin Chawla ANI vs Wikipedia defamatory content.
