The Delhi High Court has stepped into a legal controversy surrounding an upcoming web series based on the life of slain gangster Vikas Dubey. The court has issued a formal notice to the Union government and the producers of the series, titled 'UP 77', following an urgent petition filed by Dubey's widow, Richa. The plea seeks a complete ban on the series, which is scheduled for release on the Waves OTT platform on December 25, 2025.
Widow's Legal Challenge Against 'UP 77'
The petition, filed under Article 226 of the Constitution, was presented before Justice Sachin Datta. Represented by Advocate Azra Khan, Richa Dubey has requested the court to immediately stop the certification, release, streaming, promotion, and exhibition of the controversial series. The core of her argument hinges on a severe invasion of privacy and dignity, rights protected under Article 21 of the Constitution.
She contends that the makers of 'UP 77' never sought or obtained any form of consent—written, oral, or implied—from her or her family. The petition states that the series portrays identifiable characters, names, relationships, and private incidents connected to them without authorisation. It is alleged that the show sensationalises deeply personal aspects of her life, including events within her marital home and the aftermath of her husband's death.
Promotional Claims and Legal Scrutiny
The petition draws attention to the public promotion of the series by its creators and the OTT platform. It cites promotional clips and social media posts on the platform's official Instagram handle that describe the show as "based on true events," "inspired by real incidents," and a "real-life story." According to the petitioner, these materials unmistakably depict her deceased husband, his alleged activities, the encounter in which he died, and details of her private family life.
Vikas Dubey was killed in July 2020 by the Uttar Pradesh Police in an encounter. The police claimed he was shot while trying to flee from custody. The events leading to his death and his alleged crimes remain subjects of significant public and legal scrutiny, which the petition argues makes the portrayal in the web series even more sensitive and potentially prejudicial.
Court's Action and Next Steps
Taking cognisance of the serious allegations, Justice Sachin Datta has issued notices to the relevant parties, directing them to respond. The court has listed the matter for a hearing on Wednesday. This legal move puts a spotlight on the often-contentious intersection between creative expression on digital platforms and the right to privacy of individuals and families portrayed, especially when matters are sub-judice or involve traumatic personal history.
The outcome of this case could set an important precedent for how OTT platforms in India handle content claimed to be inspired by real-life figures and sensitive events. It raises critical questions about the need for permissions and the ethical boundaries of storytelling when it involves living victims or families of deceased controversial personalities.
