Hyderabad: A court in Sangareddy awarded ₹50 lakh in damages to a Hyderabad-based electric vehicle manufacturer in a defamation lawsuit against a YouTuber. The court found that a video posted online was defamatory and had harmed the company's reputation.
The III Additional District and Sessions Judge of Sangareddy declared that the video posted by the defendant contained scandalous, libellous and derogatory material, and granted consequential relief including injunctive directions.
"The evidence conclusively proves that the video posted by the defendant and currently available online is damaging the reputation of the plaintiff company. It has also tarnished the company's reputation and caused financial loss," the judge said.
The court heard the suit brought by Pure Energy, an EV manufacturer incubated at IIT Hyderabad. According to the company, it had previously collaborated with content creator Aditya Prabhakar on marketing and promotional activities involving its electric two-wheelers.
In Feb 2022, the YouTuber allegedly approached the firm with a proposal to undertake a Kashmir-to-Kanyakumari trip on one of the company's electric vehicles and produce promotional videos.
The company stated that the parties had agreed that the creator would produce 20 videos for the project and would receive payment in two instalments: 50% in advance, before the trip, and the remaining 50% once all of the promised videos had been uploaded. The firm stated that it had released the advance payment and also provided vehicles, equipment, and logistical support for the journey.
However, the company alleged that the YouTuber demanded the remaining payment before completing the agreed uploads and refused to post further videos unless the balance was paid. Following the dispute, it contended that the defendant uploaded a video containing false and unsubstantiated allegations against the firm, thereby harming its goodwill and business interests.
The lawsuit also claimed that the video used references, images, and branding elements associated with the company, portraying its vehicles in a negative light and influencing customers and dealers.
As the defendant did not file a written statement or contest the proceedings, the case was heard ex parte.
After examining the evidence and documents on record, the court held that they supported the company's claim that the video was defamatory and had damaged its reputation.
Nirupa Vatyam is an Assistant Editor with The Times of India, whe...
Read MoreNirupa Vatyam is an Assistant Editor with The Times of India, where she covers education, technology, and grassroots issues. Her stories have led to policy action, community development, and support for underprivileged students. She is known for telling powerful, people-driven stories that bring attention to critical issues.
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