Introduction:

Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni has contested a defamation suit filed against him by his former business partner, Mihir Diwakar, asserting that the suit is not maintainable. Diwakar seeks to restrain Dhoni from allegedly making defamatory statements, accusing them of illegally gaining Rs.15 crores. The suit targets various platforms, including Meta, Google, Twitter, YouTube, and multiple media houses. Dhoni’s counsel argued that the suit is not maintainable, highlighting Dhoni’s separate case against Diwakar in Ranchi.

Arguments of Both Sides:

Dhoni’s counsel argued that the defamation suit is not maintainable against their client, emphasizing the parallel case filed in Ranchi. On the other hand, Diwakar’s counsel contended that media reports were unfair, resulting in his client being labeled as a thug and thief. The discussion included challenges to territorial jurisdiction and the need for specific allegations against each defendant, as per legal precedent.

Court’s Judgment:

Justice Prathiba M Singh directed Diwakar’s counsel to outline specific allegations against the defendants, addressing the challenge to territorial jurisdiction. The matter is listed for further hearing on April 3. The court did not provide a final judgment but indicated steps for the plaintiff to proceed with the suit.