Delhi HC Notice To Red Chillies Entertainment, Netflix On Wankhede’s Defamation Suit Against Web Series

Sameer Wankhede

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday issued summons to Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, global streaming platform Netflix, and others in a defamation case filed by former NCB Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede.

Wankhede has alleged that the Netflix series Ba*ds of Bollywood**, directed by Aryan Khan, contains false and defamatory content that tarnishes his image.

Court Directs Replies Within A Week

Justice of the Delhi High Court directed Red Chillies Entertainment and other respondents to file their replies within seven days. Wankhede has been instructed to serve copies of his petition to all respondents. The court has listed the matter for hearing on October 30.

In his plea, Wankhede sought a permanent and mandatory injunction, a declaration, and damages of ₹2 crore, which he has stated should be donated to Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital for the treatment of cancer patients. Notably, a Delhi court had earlier dismissed his defamation plea on similar grounds.

Series Sparks Controversy Over Resemblance

The seven-part Netflix series, which premiered on September 18, has drawn widespread attention and controversy after viewers noticed striking similarities between a character in the show and Wankhede.

The character, introduced in the final minutes of the first episode, is depicted as an officer of a fictional agency named “NCG”, leading a campaign against drug trafficking. His appearance—white shirt, dark trousers, and distinctive hairstyle—closely resembles that of Wankhede, prompting public speculation about the inspiration behind the role.