Bombay HC Issues Restraining Order Against Smriti Mandhana’s Friend Over Defamatory Remarks |

In an interim relief for composer Palaash Muchhal, the Bombay High Court has directed Vidnyan Mane, Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana’s friend, to immediately refrain from making or publishing any further comments of a similar nature against Muchhal.The order comes in the wake of a series of allegations levelled by Mane in interviews, including claims of a ₹40 lakh financial dispute linked to a proposed film project. Mane had also made personal allegations, including remarks about Muchhal allegedly being found in bed with another woman on his wedding day and claims that he was thrashed by Mandhana’s friends.Advocate Shreyansh Mithare, appearing for Muchhal, calls the order “a big relief” for his client. “The court has put an immediate stop to false remarks. If someone is making allegations, they must have material to support them. As of now, there is absolutely no evidence against Palash,” he says. Referring to the controversy that prompted the legal action, Mithare maintains that the claims being circulated are “baseless” and driven by a bid for “media mileage.” “He is absolutely innocent. It is only for media mileage,” he adds.Muchhal has sought ₹11 crore in damages from Mane for alleged defamation. The court has granted Mane two weeks to file a reply and substantiate his claims.His lawyer also says the musician has chosen to pursue legal recourse rather than engage in a public war of words. “He is mentally prepared to fight this legally. Rather than replying to every claim publicly, he wants the matter addressed in court,” Mithare says. Muchhal has refrained from commenting publicly on the issue so far.