Telangana High Court Declines to Halt Release of Controversial Web Series
The Telangana High Court has refused to grant a stay on the release of singer Rahul Sipligunj's upcoming web series titled 'Cult'. This series reportedly draws inspiration from the sensational double murders that occurred in Madanapalle, Andhra Pradesh, back in 2021.
Court Issues Notices to Multiple Parties
Justice Nagesh Bheemapaka presided over the hearing and directed notices to several key entities. These include Rahul Sipligunj himself, the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and the Telangana government. The court issued these notices on January 9 and scheduled the next hearing for January 20.
The legal action stems from a petition filed by Uttam Valluri Chaudhary. He targeted the producer and director of the web series, along with major social media platforms like Meta Platforms, Instagram, and Google Play. Chaudhary alleges these parties are involved in circulating and promoting content he deems objectionable.
Petitioner's Core Arguments Against the Series
The petitioner raised several serious concerns in his filing:
- The web series, originally named 'Madanapally Murders', has been rebranded as 'Cult'.
- Chaudhary contends the show presents a distorted dramatization of a criminal case that is still pending before the courts.
- He argues this violates the digital media code of ethics.
- The petition also cites potential breaches of Section 69A of the Information Technology Act.
- A central claim is that the series could interfere with the ongoing administration of justice in the murder case.
Background of the Madanapalle Case
The case that inspired the series is both tragic and bizarre. It involves a couple accused of killing their two daughters. Reports suggest the murders were driven by alleged occult practices. The parents reportedly believed the girls would miraculously return to life after three days.
This gruesome incident from 2021 continues to be sub-judice, meaning it is actively under judicial consideration and has not reached a final verdict.
The High Court's decision to not impose a stay order at this juncture keeps the series on track for its planned release. However, the issuance of notices indicates the court is taking the petitioner's allegations seriously and will examine them in detail during the upcoming hearing.
