The Delhi High Court has issued a strong warning to Wikipedia, threatening to block the platform in India if it fails to comply with the country’s laws. The court also issued a contempt notice after the platform did not provide details of users who edited a controversial page related to the news agency Asian News International (ANI). ANI had accused Wikipedia of allowing defamatory content on its platform, which referred to the agency as a “propaganda tool” for the government.
BulletsIn
- Delhi High Court warns Wikipedia of a potential block in India for non-compliance with local laws.
- A contempt of court notice was issued to Wikipedia by the court.
- ANI filed a defamation suit against Wikipedia over edits made to its page.
- The edits allegedly referred to ANI as a “propaganda tool” for the Indian government.
- Wikipedia failed to disclose information about the users who made these edits.
- The High Court took a strict view of Wikipedia’s refusal to comply with a previous order.
- The court warned Wikipedia to either comply with Indian laws or stop operating in the country.
- Wikipedia’s counsel argued the platform is not based in India and sought more time to respond.
- The court has summoned an authorised Wikipedia representative to appear on October 25.
- ANI is seeking Rs 2 crore in damages, along with the removal of the allegedly defamatory content.
