The Supreme Court on Thursday directed police authorities in at least seven states to provide protection to Discovery officials allegedly facing threats following the release of the documentary series Cult of Fear: Asaram Bapu.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna and Justices PV Sanjay Kumar and KV Viswanathan issued the order in response to a petition filed by Discovery Communications India and its senior staff based across various states.
Recognizing the challenge of approaching multiple High Courts for protection, the Court issued notices to the Central government and the authorities in Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.
"In the meanwhile, we request the police authorities to ensure ...that the rights to use the office ...and no threats, by way of physical harm, are extended to the petitioners," the Court ordered.
Asaram, who is currently out on interim medical bail in two rape cases, is the subject of the Discovery+ documentary series, which explores his life.
"The series sheds light on the life of Asaram Bapu, a self-proclaimed spiritual leader currently serving a life sentence for crimes including rape and murder since 2018. It presents factual insights based on public records, witness testimonials and judicial records," Discovery India said in the plea.
The petition also highlighted that the petitioners, their colleagues, and others in similar positions have been subjected to threats of violence, hate crimes, and criminal intimidation.
According to the plea, a group of 10–15 individuals gathered outside Discovery’s office on January 30, attempting unauthorized entry and causing a law and order situation.
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