CHANDIGARH, Feb 12: Quashing the complaint, besides the summoning order, against the then Zee TV's news editor Rajat Sharma -- filed after a news item regarding an alleged CBI raid at former Haryana chief minister Bhajan Lal's houses was aired, the Punjab and Haryana High Court today held that the complainant had no locus standi to file the case.Pronouncing the orders in the open court, Justice R.L. Anand observed: ``Dharambir (complainant) had no locus standi to file the complaint as under Section 119, his complaint was an abuse of the process of law... I may also mention that Chaudhary Bhajan Lal has filed a separate complaint with regard to that very news item. This further strengthens the reason of this court that Dharambir had no locus standi to file the present complaint.''
Describing the news item aired on October 20, 1996 as ``loathsome'' and ``disgraceful'', the complainant had earlier alleged, before the Bhiwani Chief Judicial Officer, that it was aimed at harming Bhajan Lal's fame. Claiming long lasting impact of the item on Bhajan Lal's reputation, he had stated that it had considerably lowered his esteem, adversely affecting his, and his co-workers', political career. Despite best efforts it would take a long time for him to overcome tremendous setback to his fame, Dharambir had added.
Alleging it to have been ``motivated'' with intention to harm the CM, he had said that the item was broadcast for undermining the party activities, in full swing to check the advance of the certain forces.
The news item, regarding the alleged CBI raid at the former CM's residence at Hisar and Adampur, was aired during the 10 p.m. news bulletin, he had added.
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.