Delhi High Court Acts on ‘Epstein Link’ Posts Targeting Hardeep Singh Puri’s Daughter

The Delhi High Court has directed the immediate removal of online content that allegedly connects Himayani Puri, daughter of Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri, with Jeffrey Epstein.

Acting on her plea, the court found that the complaint establishes a prima facie case of reputational harm and ordered that all identified posts be taken down without delay within India. It further mandated that if platforms fail to act instantly, they must ensure removal within 24 hours of being notified.

The bench made it clear that this is an interim measure, aimed at preventing further circulation of the disputed material while the case is examined in detail. Notices have been issued to social media platforms and other parties named in the suit, directing them to file their responses within two weeks.

Importantly, the court restricted the scope of its order to India for now. It stated that the larger question of whether such content can be blocked globally will be considered at a later stage, once all पक्ष present their arguments.

During proceedings, the court noted that the balance of convenience currently lies in favour of Himayani Puri, observing that the allegations - which attempt to link her to a convicted offender - require closer judicial scrutiny.

Her legal team argued that the posts are part of a targeted campaign designed to damage her credibility, stressing that there is no factual basis for any association with Epstein. The petition also claimed that the controversy has wider implications, as she is professionally based in New York and her reputation extends beyond India.

However, opposing counsel, including senior advocate Arvind Datar, submitted that the issue of global takedown orders is already pending before a larger bench of the High Court. They argued that enforcement should remain limited to Indian jurisdiction.

Representatives for Meta echoed this concern, questioning the legality of worldwide content removal orders and indicating that such directions would be contested.

Lawyers appearing for journalists also cautioned against overreach, stating that ongoing international reporting related to Epstein must be protected, especially where content is based on publicly available information.