Hina Khan Receives Final Opportunity In Defamation Suit Against Praxis Media Over Jewellery Theft Allegations

The Delhi High Court has given television actress Hina Khan a final chance to present her case in a defamation lawsuit she filed against a public relations firm. The firm accused her of stealing jewellery. Khan's lawyer informed the court that the "Bigg Boss 11" star has been diagnosed with cancer, and no further instructions have been received from her.

Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora stated, "By way of a last opportunity, the matter is adjourned to January 2, 2025, after which the suit will be dismissed in default for non-prosecution." This statement highlights the urgency for Khan to advance her submissions in the case.

In December 2018, the high court issued an ex-parte ad-interim order preventing Praxis Media and other defendants from publishing defamatory content against Khan. This included a legal notice dated July 16, 2018, accusing her of jewellery theft. The case is currently at the stage where pleadings are being completed and documents are being admitted or denied.

The incident originated in 2018 when Khan was preparing for an appearance at the Dadasaheb Phalke Awards ceremony. She hired a professional fashion stylist to manage her attire and accessories. During this process, some jewellery allegedly went missing while being transported by the stylist's assistants.

Khan's legal notice detailed that after selecting a set of jewels, they were misplaced during transit. The police were informed, and an FIR was filed regarding this incident. Despite being aware of these developments, Praxis Media allegedly leaked an unsigned legal notice to defame Khan publicly.

In response to these actions, Khan sent a legal notice to Praxis Media before proceeding with filing a defamation suit in court. Her allegations suggest that the firm's actions were intended to damage her reputation and cause distress.

The court proceedings continue as both parties prepare their submissions and evidence for the upcoming hearing scheduled for early 2025. This case underscores the complexities involved in legal battles over defamation and reputation management within the entertainment industry.