Delhi High Court orders Mohak Mangal to remove defamatory parts of his YouTube video targeting ANI over copyright strikes, citing reputational damage.

Background: Defamation Case Filed by ANI Against Mohak Mangal

On May 29, 2025, the Delhi High Court directed popular YouTuber Mohak Mangal to delete specific portions of his video titled “Dear ANI”, which criticized the news agency ANI for its handling of copyright strikes against content creators.

The court responded to a defamation lawsuit filed by ANI, alleging that the video used inflammatory and defamatory language, including terms like “hafta wasooli” (extortion), “gunda raj” (rule of thugs), and “kidnap.”

Court Observations and Verdict

Judge Criticizes Use of Harsh Language

Presiding over the case, Justice Amit Bansal noted that the video content was disparaging on its face and emphasized that such statements should have been phrased more appropriately.

“Assuming ANI’s demands were unjust—how does that qualify as extortion?” the judge asked.

He further questioned Mangal’s justification for using such serious accusations while choosing not to obtain proper licensing for ANI’s copyrighted content.

Language Like “Mafia” and “Thugs” Under Fire

The court also criticized the tone and terminology used by others named in the lawsuit. In particular, it addressed stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, who used terms like “mafia” and “thugs” in social media posts. Justice Bansal stated:

“I support free speech, but calling someone ‘thugs’ or ‘mafia’ is unacceptable.”

Other Defendants: Mohammed Zubair and Kunal Kamra

Alt News’ Zubair Agrees to Delete Post

Mohammed Zubair, co-founder of fact-checking site Alt News, who was also named in the suit for promoting the video, agreed to remove one of his posts related to the incident from X (formerly Twitter).

Kunal Kamra Removes One Post, Defends Satire

Kunal Kamra, known for his satirical content, agreed to take down only one of several posts. His lawyer defended Kamra’s actions, highlighting his role as a free speech advocate and satirist.

ANI’s Claims: Damaged Reputation and Harassment

ANI stated in its petition that the video has caused measurable harm to its goodwill, public image, and business. The agency alleged the video incited widespread online harassment and backlash.

The news agency emphasized that Mohak Mangal had used ANI’s copyrighted material in monetized videos without permission, calling it a calculated attack on their brand reputation and trademarks.

Key Takeaways

• Delhi High Court instructed Mohak Mangal to delete defamatory parts of his video targeting ANI.

• The video allegedly used terms like “extortion”, “thugs”, and “kidnap” to describe ANI’s actions.

• Other figures like Mohammed Zubair and Kunal Kamra were also asked to remove related posts.

• ANI claims the video caused public backlash and harmed its reputation and credibility.