Delhi High Court Closes Lawrence Bishnoi's Plea Against Web Series; Allows Him To Intervene In Zee5's Challenge To Centre's Advisories

The Delhi High Court on Monday closed a petition filed against the release of upcoming web series “Lawrence of Punjab” on OTT platform ZEE5, owned by Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited.

The web series was scheduled for release on April 27.

Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav disposed of the plea filed by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi opposing the release, after Zee5 said that it is in the process of challenging the advisories issued by the Union Government asking it not to release the show.

Senior Advocate Amit Sibal appearing for the OTT platform said that Zee5 is in the process of challenging the advisories issued by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting before the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Sibal also said that the Delhi High Court lacked territorial jurisdiction to entertain the petition as the cause of action had arisen outside in the matter.

The Union Government said that the MIB has issued three advisories to Zee5.

“In view of the advisories, this Court finds that Zee may not be possibly releasing the contents of “Lawrence of Punjab.” Liberty is granted to the petitioner to intervene or take appropriate steps in the process of challenging to the advisories at the instance of Zee. The petition is disposed of,” the Court said while closing the matter.

In a related news, a PIL seeking similar relief has been filed before the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The plea has been filed there by Ludhiana MP Raja Warring. He has raised concerns relating to public order and societal harmony.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court disposed of the plea after the Central government advised ZEE5 not to release the series. 

The Union Government told the OTT platform that the Punjab Police has informed that there exists a reasonable apprehension that the release of the documentary is prejudicial to public order and has the potential to incite the commission of cognizable offences.

Title: Lawrence Bishnoi v. Union of India & Ors