FIR against Instagram handle for defamatory video on Paradise haleem

HYDERABAD: Paradise food court has lodged a complaint at the Begumpet police station against an Instagram channel which has uploaded a video citing issues with Paradise haleem.

"The Instagram channel ‘telanganacrimefiles2023’ has been sharing a defamatory video on Paradise and other multiple WhatsApp groups," read the FIR.

According to Paradise management, the edited video was neither shot by the channel nor did the channel owners visit its outlet at that time. The management also believed that the uploaded video was intended to harm the reputation of the brand and to gain undue publicity from the same.

Paradise also complained that the perpetrators were extorting them and sought monetary benefits to remove the video. It believed that the customer and the Instagram channel had apparently hatched a conspiracy to extort money and defame Paradise and its business.

Paradise hoped the culprits were dealt with by authorities and due action was taken against the individuals.

Talking about the video, Gautam Gupta, CEO, Paradise Food Court Pvt. Ltd, said, “We have taken the matter seriously and raised a complaint with the police as we have various evidence that the video is manipulated and has been made up with an intention to defame the brand. It is astonishing that one can go to such lengths out of total malice, but we are sure the authorities will tackle this situation and resolve it rightfully.

“Dissemination of such defamatory content not only harms our brand but also undermines the hard work and dedication of our employees who strive tirelessly to deliver an exceptional experience to our patrons. It also breaks the trust customers have on the restaurants in general. Paradise, along with industry leaders, condemns such practices and calls upon the people to exercise discretion when engaging with content online,” he added.

Kumar Rajagopalan, CEO, RAI (Retailers Association of India) said, “Incidences of threatening established heritage brands by miscreants is worrying for all establishments that are built with consumer trust over decades. We hope that such instances are nipped by authorities to create a positive business environment."

Sandeep B, co-chapter head (Hyd) of National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI), which is the voice of the Indian restaurant industry representing the interests of five lakh plus restaurants stated, “NRAI recognizes the diverse nature of social media, which offers both opportunities and challenges. Unfortunately, some individuals misuse this platform to spread misinformation and create unnecessary disturbances. Recently, there has been a concerning rise in social media trials unfairly targeting businesses without proper investigation, causing undue stress for restaurants. We advocate for a fair and thorough examination of such cases to prevent baseless allegations. NRAI stands in solidarity with Paradise and trusts that authorities will address the situation sensibly to restore consumer trust.”