Actress Sukanya wins defamation case after 30 Years

Defamation lawsuits are often viewed as symbolic moves, especially in political circles. In many cases, such lawsuits are eventually withdrawn quietly or settled behind closed doors. But actress Sukanya’s case turned out to be very different.

The actress had filed a defamation suit against a television channel, and the legal battle continued for nearly 30 years. In the end, she emerged victorious. The court has ordered the channel to pay her compensation of Rs 10 lakh for damaging her reputation.

Here’s the background of the case:

In 1996, Sun TV aired an interview with the notorious sandalwood smuggler Veerappan. Sukanya alleged that certain remarks made during the interview tarnished her image and reputation. She subsequently filed a petition against Sun TV in the Chennai City Civil Court.

The City Civil Court ruled in her favor and directed the channel to pay damages. Challenging the verdict, Sun TV approached the Madras High Court.

After a prolonged legal battle, the case concluded on June 5, with the Madras High Court upholding the City Civil Court’s judgment.

The court observed that the channel had both the authority and opportunity to edit the interview before telecast but failed to do so. As a result, it held that the channel was responsible for broadcasting content that harmed the actress’s reputation.

The High Court directed Sun TV to pay the compensation amount of Rs 10,00,500, affirming the lower court’s order. Thus, after nearly three decades of litigation, Sukanya finally secured legal vindication and protection of her reputation.