LI Network
Published on: January 16, 2024 at 11:53 IST
The Delhi High Court, on Monday, granted an injunction against Vikash Kotnala, a YouTube channel partner of entrepreneur Vivek Bindra, restraining him from posting any defamatory or disparaging material against YouTuber and motivational speaker Sandeep Maheshwari.
Justice Prateek Jalan, in his decision, found a prima facie connection between Kotnala and Bindra. The Court noted that Kotnala’s videos were in violation of a civil court order dated December 22, 2023, which had restrained both Maheshwari and Bindra from making defamatory statements against each other.
Sandeep Sethi, Senior Advocate representing Maheshwari, argued that Kotnala was influenced by Bindra to make baseless allegations against Maheshwari. The reference was made to two videos where Kotnala accused Maheshwari of attempting to extort money from Bindra and orchestrating a campaign against Bindra in the market.
During the hearing, Justice Jalan commented on the escalating discord on social media, stating, “I don’t mean any disrespect, but this is some sort of war that is starting on these YouTube channels.”
The Court concluded that Maheshwari presented a prima facie case, and irreparable harm could occur without an injunction. Therefore, an order was passed against Kotnala, restraining him from publishing defamatory material against Maheshwari online or offline.
The legal dispute originated from a video released by Maheshwari on December 11, 2023, titled ‘Big Scam Exposed,’ wherein he alleged Bindra’s involvement in a scam related to a 10-day MBA course. The ongoing feud has garnered millions of views on both sides and has led to legal interventions.
