What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday provided Telugu actor Mohan Babu interim protection against any coercive action in a case where he is accused of assaulting a journalist. The Bench, comprising Justices Sudhanshu Dhulia and Prashant Kumar Mishra, directed, “No coercive measures till next date. File reply. List after four weeks.”
The case stems from a complaint filed by a journalist working with TV9, who alleged that Babu assaulted him during a visit to the actor’s residence, which was reportedly arranged by Babu’s son, Manchu Manoj. The journalist claims that during the interaction, the actor heatedly grabbed the microphone and struck him with it, resulting in a fractured jaw.
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Earlier, the Telangana High Court had dismissed Babu’s plea for anticipatory bail, citing serious allegations and suggesting that he might be interfering with the investigation. Following this, Babu approached the apex court seeking relief.
Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, representing Babu, argued that custodial interrogation was unnecessary, emphasizing the actor’s age and denying allegations of pressuring the complainant to withdraw the case. Rohatgi further stated, “It was a spur-of-the-moment incident. I am willing to apologise publicly and compensate the journalist.”
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The opposing counsel highlighted the severity of injuries suffered by the journalist, noting, “I had a fractured jaw and had to consume food through a pipe.”
The Court, while granting interim protection, suggested exploring a resolution through compensation. Rohatgi assured the Court of discussing the matter with the journalist’s counsel to address the issue amicably.
