August 4, 2026

Defamation Case Update: Delhi High Court Sets Final Hearing Date for MJ Akbar vs Priya Ramani on September 24

The Delhi High Court has set a final hearing date of September 24 for MJ Akbar’s defamation case against journalist Priya Ramani, marking a significant milestone in the long-running case that has sparked widespread discussion around the MeToo movement in India.

Delhi HC lists M.J. Akbar's plea against Priya Ramani in defamation case for final hearing on September 24

defamation case update delhi:

March 16, 2026 Editorial Team

The Delhi High Court has scheduled the final hearing for MJ Akbar’s plea against Priya Ramani in a defamation case for September 24. This development comes after Akbar appealed against the trial court’s decision in the criminal defamation case. Akbar had initially filed the case against Ramani, a journalist, over an article she wrote in 2017.

In his appeal, Akbar has argued that the trial court’s decision was based on conjecture and surmises, rather than concrete evidence. The trial court had previously ruled in favor of Ramani, dismissing Akbar’s defamation case against her. Akbar’s appeal now seeks to overturn this decision and secure a ruling in his favor.

The case dates back to 2017, when Ramani wrote an article detailing her experiences with Akbar, who was then a Minister of State for External Affairs. Ramani’s article was part of the MeToo movement, which saw numerous women coming forward with allegations of harassment and abuse against powerful men. Akbar has consistently denied the allegations made against him.

The scheduled final hearing on September 24 is expected to bring a conclusion to the long-running case. The court’s decision will have significant implications for both parties involved, as well as for the broader discussion around the MeToo movement in India. As the case nears its conclusion, attention will be focused on the Delhi High Court’s ruling and its potential impact on future defamation cases.

The case has been closely watched, with many seeing it as a test of the Indian justice system’s ability to handle cases of harassment and defamation. The outcome of the case will be closely followed by media outlets, legal experts, and the general public, as it has the potential to set a significant precedent for future cases. With the final hearing date now set, all eyes will be on the Delhi High Court as it prepares to deliver its ruling.