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The Delhi High Court has issued a contempt notice to Wikipedia, the widely used free online encyclopedia, over its failure to disclose information about those who made edits on the entry page of news agency Asian News International (ANI). The court's action stems from a defamation suit filed by ANI, alleging that Wikipedia has not complied with court orders to reveal the identities of subscribers who made defamatory edits on its platform. The court has expressed its frustration with Wikipedia's non-compliance, warning that it may be forced to block the platform in India if it continues to disregard legal directives.
ANI's lawsuit accuses Wikipedia of allowing defamatory edits that labeled the news agency as a “propaganda tool” for the BJP-led government at the Center. The High Court had previously issued a summons to Wikipedia, demanding the disclosure of the names of the three individuals responsible for the edits on ANI's Wikipedia page. However, Wikipedia's counsel argued that the platform was based outside of India and that the process of fulfilling the court's order was taking time.
Justice Navin Chawla, presiding over the case, expressed strong disapproval of Wikipedia's stance. In a report published by Bar and Bench, he is quoted as saying, “I will impose contempt…It is not a question of Defendant No 1 [Wikipedia] not being an entity in India. We will close your business transactions here. We will ask the government to block Wikipedia…Earlier also you people have taken this argument. If you don’t like India, please don’t work in India.” This forceful language highlights the seriousness of the situation and the court's determination to ensure compliance with its orders.
The conflict between ANI and Wikipedia underscores the complex legal issues surrounding online platforms and their responsibility for user-generated content. While Wikipedia operates as a platform for open collaboration and knowledge sharing, it faces a challenge in balancing this principle with the need to address potential defamation and legal repercussions. The High Court's decision to issue a contempt notice and its threat to block Wikipedia in India highlight the potential consequences for platforms that fail to comply with judicial orders. This case serves as a reminder of the evolving legal landscape in the digital age and the growing importance of addressing online defamation and content moderation.
Source: 'If You Don't Like India, Don't Work Here': Delhi HC Issues Contempt Notice To Wikipedia