SC Grants Interim Protection To Officials Of Discovery India After Threats Over ‘Cult Of Fear: Asaram Bapu’

Asaram Bapu

The Supreme Court of India, on Thursday, issued interim protection for officials of Discovery Communications India following alleged threats linked to the release of the documentary series “Cult of Fear: Asaram Bapu.”

A bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justices P.V. Sanjay Kumar and K.V. Viswanathan mandated law enforcement agencies across seven states to ensure the safety of the channel’s personnel and assets.

This judicial intervention stemmed from a petition filed by Discovery Communications India and its senior executives, citing an escalation in hostile online rhetoric and physical threats directed at the network and its affiliates. The channel contended that the documentary, which examines the activities of self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, provoked significant backlash, particularly on social media platforms.

Legal representatives for Discovery Communications India argued that the climate of intimidation had severely constrained the petitioners’ ability to conduct their professional and personal affairs freely. Acknowledging the impracticality of seeking recourse through multiple High Courts, the Supreme Court issued notices to the Central government and authorities in Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu.

“Issue notice returnable in the week commencing 3rd March 2025. In the interim, we direct police authorities to ensure the petitioners’ access to their workplace and to prevent any threats or physical harm against them,” the court ruled.

The petitioners maintained that the documentary was constructed on a foundation of verified public records, judicial rulings, and firsthand witness accounts. They further asserted that security concerns intensified following its release on the OTT platform Discovery+.

The petition elaborated: “The series presents a critical analysis of Asaram Bapu, a self-proclaimed spiritual leader currently serving a life sentence since 2018 for offenses including rape and murder. It relies upon substantive legal documentation, corroborative testimonies, and court adjudications.”

The plea underscored the necessity of protective measures in light of criminal intimidation and violent threats purportedly orchestrated by Asaram’s supporters. The petition specifically referenced an incident on January 30, when a group assembled outside Discovery’s Mumbai office, causing considerable disruption. Although law enforcement officials dispersed the crowd, no punitive action was taken against the demonstrators.

Asaram, convicted of multiple counts of rape, remains incarcerated but has been granted bail on medical grounds. His sustained influence among followers, as reflected in the threats directed at Discovery Communications, raises pressing concerns about security, public order, and the broader implications of extremist advocacy.