Delhi HC directs google, Instagram to remove defamatory videos against Amul, regarding animal cruelty

CASE: Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation vs Rishabh Kaushal & Ors

The Delhi High Court directed Google, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to remove a defamatory video uploaded by the admin of a vegan group called 'Activism for Animals', which alleged that Amul was indulging in cruelty towards cows. 

Justice Pratibha Singh asked the defendant Rishabh Kaushal to provide reasons as to why he shared such content, after Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation argued that the defamatory video was out of propaganda initiated by plant-based companies to promote products like soy milk. To which, the defendant replied that he was an innocent animal lover who had set up a group called 'Activism for Animals' along with other 'like-minded' individuals. Their sole intention is to create awareness and sensitise users on dairy cruelty.

Advocate Abhishek Singh, appearing on behalf of Amul,  argued that the defendants had the sole intention of creating fear and psychosis in the minds of the people to give up Amul products and instead shift to plant-based products like almond milk, tofu, etc.

The counsel of the defendant argued that he had deleted the videos the minute he received a legal notice. He just wanted to create awareness after being inspired by the documentaries on Netflix.

Lastly, the defendant said that after removing the video, he had deactivated all his accounts. He further said that he was not a part of any organisation, nor did he receive any payment from any third party.