Delhi HC Bans 'Kala Hiran' Teaser Linked to Salman Khan Case

The Delhi High Court has mandated the removal of the teaser for 'Kala Hiran: The Battle for Legacy,' a film reportedly inspired by the 1998 blackbuck poaching case involving actor Salman Khan. Justice Jyoti Singh observed that the teaser's content could adversely affect Khan's reputation and indicated an order for its removal from social media within 24 hours.

The court's decision stemmed from Salman Khan's plea concerning his personality rights and the potential impact on his right to a fair trial. Khan's legal team argued that the film, which allegedly portrays him with underworld connections and contains defamatory material, could prejudice the ongoing judicial proceedings.

During the hearing, the producer's conduct was heavily criticized, particularly after he publicly tore a legal notice sent by Khan. The court stressed the fragility of reputation, noting how quickly it can be damaged. While the producer's counsel argued the teaser did not name Khan, the court, after viewing it, suggested that depicting matters under judicial consideration could amount to contempt.

The court also touched upon the responsibilities of digital intermediaries, with platforms like X and YouTube potentially being directed to remove links if the producer fails to comply. The judge reiterated the importance of safeguarding an individual's reputation during pending legal proceedings.