Mohammed Zubair Deletes Tweet After ANI Defamation Case; Kunal Kamra Refuses to Comply

In a recent courtroom development, AltNews co-founder Mohammed Zubair deleted a controversial tweet after being named in a defamation suit filed by news agency ANI in the Delhi High Court. The tweet, which shared a video created by YouTuber Mohak Mangal, was cited as defamatory in ANI's complaint.

While the primary legal target is Mangal, ANI’s lawsuit also named Zubair and comedian Kunal Kamra for amplifying the video on social media. As the content gained widespread attention, both Zubair and Kamra shared the clip with their audiences, prompting ANI to initiate legal proceedings.

Zubair’s legal team informed the court that he was willing to delete the tweet and requested that his name be removed from the case. “I have only made one tweet. I am not a YouTuber. I am not making money out of this,” Zubair told the court. He deleted the tweet even before the official court directive was issued.

ANI did not object to Zubair’s request, and the court acknowledged his cooperation, instructing that the tweet be removed within 24 hours—a requirement Zubair had already fulfilled.

In contrast, Kunal Kamra refused to delete his tweet. Known for his satirical style and outspoken criticism, Kamra used terms like “thugs” and “mafia” when referring to ANI—language the court deemed unacceptable. “I don’t see satire, humour there,” stated the judge, indicating the posts crossed the line into defamation.

The court issued an oral directive asking Kamra to remove the offending tweet, but as of now, Kamra has not complied. It remains unclear whether he will face additional legal consequences for defying the court’s instruction.

This case underscores the rising legal scrutiny of online content, especially where public figures and media organizations are involved. The contrasting responses from Zubair and Kamra highlight different interpretations of free speech, satire, and legal responsibility in India’s increasingly regulated digital environment.