The Delhi High Court observed that political criticism and defamation are separated by a “thin line” while hearing AAP MP Raghav Chadha’s plea
May 21, 2026: The Delhi High Court on Thursday observed that there is a “thin line” between political criticism and defamation while hearing a plea filed by AAP MP Raghav Chadha against allegedly defamatory social media posts. Chadha approached the court seeking the removal of content that allegedly portrayed him as having “sold himself for money” after reportedly switching political allegiance from AAP to the BJP. The court reserved its verdict on his request for interim relief and takedown of the posts.
Justice Subramonium Prasad noted during the hearing that while every individual has a right to live with dignity, the constitutional right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a) must also be protected. The judge remarked that criticism of political decisions has long existed in public discourse, citing political cartoons and commentary as examples. He observed that social media has amplified such criticism but added that the posts in question appeared, prima facie, to fall within the realm of political commentary.
Senior advocate Rajiv Nayar, appearing for Chadha, argued that posts suggesting the MP “traded himself for money” went beyond fair criticism and amounted to defamation. Chadha’s plea also raised concerns over the use of AI-generated and deepfake content, claiming such manipulated material violated his legal and constitutional rights. The court suggested appointing an amicus curiae in the matter, noting that many of the alleged offending posts had been made by unidentified individuals online.