Did Aryan Khan’s Netflix debut cross the line? Delhi HC summons SRK’s Red Chillies and Netflix

The Delhi High Court has summoned Red Chillies Entertainment, Netflix, and social media giants after IRS officer Sameer Wankhede accused Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, “The Ba*ds of Bollywood,” of defaming and ridiculing him.

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued summons to Red Chillies Entertainment, Netflix, Google, Meta, and X Corp in a defamation case filed by Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Sameer Wankhede. The officer alleged that the web series “The Ba*ds of Bollywood,” directed by Aryan Khan, contains false and defamatory content targeting him.

Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav sought responses from the defendants and listed the case for further hearing on October 30. “Let them take instructions and file a reply. Cannot pass an injunction order in general,” the court observed.

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Wankhede Claims Series “Mocks” and “Targets” Him

Represented by Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, Wankhede claimed that the series includes a scene featuring a man closely resembling him, portrayed in a manner that “targets and ridicules” his personality. He has sought damages worth ₹2 crore and an injunction to stop further publication or dissemination of such content.

“The defendant has intentionally crafted a character in defamatory content to resemble the plaintiff — his speech, actions, and traits are strikingly similar. This was a conscious attempt to portray him in a negative light,” the plea stated.

Wankhede Seeks Takedown of Content

The former NCB Mumbai Zonal Director, known for his high-profile investigation into the Aryan Khan cruise drug case in 2021, argued that the show maligns not only his image but also the reputation of anti-narcotics agencies. He has requested that Netflix and other platforms takedown defamatory scenes and restrain users from spreading related content.

Wankhede also alleged receiving intimidatory messages on social media after the show’s release, linking the online harassment to the portrayal in the series.

Aryan Khan’s directorial debut ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’ releases on Netflix today

What's the response from Red Chillies and Netflix?

Senior Advocate Rajiv Nayyar represented Netflix, while Senior Advocate Shyel Trehan appeared for Red Chillies Entertainment. The court clarified that while Wankhede’s concerns appeared valid, due process must be followed before any restraint order.

The case will be heard next on October 30, where the platforms are expected to file their responses.