Former Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) officer Sameer Wankhede has accused the Netflix series “The Byads of Bollywood” of defamation. He filed a petition against Netflix and Red Chillies Entertainment in the Delhi High Court, alleging damage to his image. Netflix has now formally opposed Wankhede’s application.
Netflix asserts that the series primarily focuses on Bollywood culture, utilizing elements of satire and dark comedy. The streaming giant’s legal team presented its arguments in court.
Senior Advocate Rajiv Nayar, representing Netflix, appeared before Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav. Nayar argued that merely associating the show with Aryan Khan, son of Shah Rukh Khan, is insufficient to prove malicious intent.
The lawyer emphasized that the series broadly satirizes “the bad ways” of Bollywood. He noted that every character is depicted through some form of parody or satire.
Nayar characterized the entire series as “a big joke” on Bollywood. He suggested that this satirical approach is central to the show’s theme and purpose.
He also stated that Wankhede should not be overly concerned about a “one-and-a-half-minute satirical scene.” This is especially true if Wankhede himself acknowledges its satirical nature.
The controversy centers on an episode in “The Byads of Bollywood” featuring an NCB officer. This character reportedly resembles Wankhede in appearance and mannerisms.
The fictional officer is shown raiding a Bollywood party, drawing parallels to Wankhede’s past involvement in high-profile cases. Wankhede claims he was hurt by a “false, malicious, and defamatory video” in the series.
Wankhede’s petition seeks the removal of the series from various online platforms. Lawyers for Red Chillies Entertainment had previously opposed his application as well.
The Delhi High Court will hear Wankhede’s arguments in the case during the next hearing. This session is scheduled for December 2.