Subhiksha row: Wipro chairman asked to file reply

Mumbai, Jan 18: Wipro chairman Azim Premji has been asked by the Bombay High Court to submit a written statement on a defamation suit filed by the owner of the retail chain Subhiksha.

A defamation suit was filed by Subhiksha owner R Subramanian seeking damages of Rs 500 crore.

Premji “...shares much repute among the business fraternity of India and whose views have considerable influence not only among the business fraternity but also public in general,” the suit says.

Subramanian argued that Premji had made statements against Subhiksha in an interview that affected its business prospects. Premji's statements were made with a malafide intention, he continued.

Premji's lawyers opined that they would like to inspect the suit documents. Meanwhile, Subramanian's lawyers said that all documents have been attached at exhibits to the suit.

In 2008, Premji had bought 10 per cent stake in Subhiksha for Rs 230 crore. Subramanian alleged that Wipro demanded for a larger equity stake which the company refused. He alleged that Premji had developed a deep-rooted malice towards the company following it.

OneIndia News