Sameer Wankhede files Defamation suit against Netflix’s “The Badshahs of Bollywood” in Delhi High Court
Digital Desk
In a high-profile legal development, Indian Revenue Service officer Sameer Wankhede has moved the Delhi High Court seeking a permanent injunction against Netflix’s newly released series “The Badshahs of Bollywood”. Wankhede alleges that the eight-episode show directed by Aaryan Khan portrays him in a malicious and prejudicial manner, risking serious damage to his professional reputation.
According to court filings, Wankhede’s petition highlights a scene in the series that “mocks” his role during the 2021 cruise-party drug raid in which actor Aryan Khan was arrested. The officer contends the character’s depiction is a deliberate attempt to malign him while the Bombay High Court and NDPS Special Court matter remains sub judice.
Wankhede’s suit further asserts that the series flagrantly violates the Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971, by depicting a character making an obscene gesture—specifically showing the middle finger immediately after reciting the national slogan “Satyamev Jayate.” He argues this act not only outrages national sentiment but also breaches provisions of the Information Technology Act and the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Legal experts note that injunctive relief in defamation cases against digital streaming platforms is rare in India but underscore that Wankhede’s allegations of reputational harm and statutory violations could set an important precedent. If the Delhi High Court grants the injunction, Netflix may be compelled to remove or edit the contested scenes pending final adjudication.
As this case unfolds, industry observers are watching closely for its implications on creative freedom, platform liability, and the balance between public interest and individual reputation. The Delhi High Court is expected to list the matter for hearing in the coming days, marking the latest chapter in ongoing debates over content regulation on OTT platforms.