New Delhi:
IRS officer Sameer Wankhede has approached the Delhi High Court alleging that the web series Ba**ds of Bollywood* was produced with the intention to malign his reputation and “settle personal scores” over the 2021 arrest of Aryan Khan. Wankhede, who was then serving as the Mumbai Zonal Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau, led the investigation that resulted in Aryan Khan’s detention during a cruise ship drug raid. Aryan was later cleared of all charges after a Special Investigation Team reviewed the case and concluded that there was insufficient evidence.
Allegation of Personal Vendetta
In his petition, Wankhede has stated that the series was not made as satire, but as a calculated act of revenge for Aryan Khan’s arrest. According to him, the content is defamatory and presents events in a manner designed to humiliate him and damage his public image. He argued that the “satire” defence is being used as a shield to justify false and exaggerated portrayals.
Wankhede stated that a public servant performing his duty should not be subjected to ridicule by way of dramatized content that distorts real events. His submission claims that the web series depicts him in a negative, villain-like manner to evoke public hostility.
Defense Argument
The producers of the series have countered the defamation claim by arguing that the work is a fictionalised satire and does not portray real-life individuals directly. They have stated that creative freedom allows commentary, humour and dramatization based on public events, especially when such events have already been widely discussed in the public domain.
The defence has also argued that Wankhede has previously faced media scrutiny and public criticism over his role in high-profile cases, and therefore the series merely reflects pre-existing discourse rather than creating new defamation.
Damages Sought and Court Proceedings
Wankhede has sought damages of ₹2 crore, which he has stated he intends to donate to the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital if awarded. He has also requested the Court to restrain further streaming or promotion of the series.
The Delhi High Court has taken note of the matter and asked both sides to file their written submissions. The case has been listed for further hearing on 10 November.
Case Significance
The legal dispute raises broader questions about where the line lies between artistic expression and defamation. The outcome could influence future guidelines regarding films and digital-series that draw from real-life individuals or high-profile controversies. It will also test how Indian courts interpret satire when reputational harm is alleged.