Image source - Opindia |
The court's verdict underscored that the case lacked substantial evidence and was built on false grounds. The Maharashtra state authorities admitted to the court that the allegations and evidence against Arnab Goswami and Republic TV were unfounded and fabricated. Consequently, the additional chief metropolitan magistrate’s court in Mumbai directed the withdrawal of all charges against Arnab Goswami and Republic TV in this matter.
What makes this ruling even more noteworthy is the revelation that witnesses were coerced and intimidated into providing false testimony against Republic TV. This revelation led the court to recognize the falsity of the evidence presented against the channel.
The state's fresh application in this case highlighted several crucial points. It pointed out that many witnesses confessed under oath, per Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), that their statements were obtained under duress by police officers associated with the state machinery. Furthermore, the complaint against Republic TV was initiated without any involvement or complaint from BARC, the authority responsible for viewership data. Given these circumstances, the state deemed it futile to continue with the prosecution.
The application also emphasized the state government's decision to recommend the withdrawal of the case after a thorough consideration of its merits. It cited relevant legal provisions under Section 321 of the CrPC to support its plea for withdrawal.
The 'Fake TRP' scam, which initially implicated Republic TV, turned out to be a case of mistaken identity. Despite the initial accusations, subsequent investigations by the Enforcement Directorate revealed no evidence against Republic Media Network. The charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate confirmed the innocence of Republic TV in the alleged TRP manipulation scheme.
In summary, the Mumbai court's ruling dismissing the TRP case against Republic TV signifies a crucial vindication for the channel, highlighting the importance of due process and fair investigation in legal proceedings.
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