SC explains Tests for granting interim injunctions/ stay orders

Bloomberg Television Production Services India Private Limited & Ors Vs Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (Supreme Court of India)

In a recent landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India, in the case of Bloomberg Television Production Services India Private Limited & Ors Vs Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited, elucidated on the tests to be satisfied before granting interim injunctions or stay orders. The case centered on an ex-parte ad interim order passed by the trial court, directing the defendants (a media platform, one of its editors, and concerned journalists) to take down a defamatory article published on their online platform.

Key Points of the Supreme Court’s Explanation:

1. Three-fold Test: The court reiterated the well-established three-fold test for granting interim relief: (i) a prima facie case, (ii) balance of convenience, and (iii) irreparable loss or harm. This test is equally applicable in defamation suits. However, the court emphasized that this test should not be applied mechanically and without detailed reasoning.

Please become a Premium member. If you are already a Premium member, login here to access the full content.