The Supreme Court on 6th February, 2025, granted interim police protection to officials and the property of Discovery Communications India following threats received over their documentary Cult of Fear – Asaram Bapu. The bench of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar issued notice to the Union Government and several state police authorities, directing them to ensure the safety of the petitioners.

The petition, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, highlighted increasing threats and online hate comments directed at Discovery and its officials after the release of the documentary on Discovery+. The documentary covers the crimes of self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, currently serving a life sentence for rape. The documentary is based on public records, court orders, and witness testimonies.

Senior Advocate Abhinav Mukherji, representing Discovery India, informed the court that company officials were facing difficulties traveling across the country. The plea also mentioned an incident on 30th January 2025, when a mob gathered outside Discovery’s Mumbai office, creating a ruckus. While the police dispersed the crowd, no action was reportedly taken against those involved.

The case will be heard again in the first week of March 2025.

Source: News