Delhi HC expunges remarks against Juhi Chawla in 5G lawsuit; cuts fine costs

In a ruling on Thursday, the Delhi high court expunged statements made in previous hearings by its judge against Bollywood actress Juhi Chawla regarding health risks associated with 5G wireless networks in the country.

According to the court, the actress "didn't raise the 5G issue in a frivolous or casual manner", which reduced her fine from 20 lakh to 2 lakh.

Earlier this year, Juhi Chawla and a few others had approached the Delhi high court to stop the rollout of 5G, which was deemed defective and an abuse of the law by a single-judge bench in June. In addition to imposing a fine of 20 lakh, the bench noted that the suit was filed to garner publicity.

The court noted in today's virtual hearing that Chawla also offered to work with the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) and feature in programs that empower marginalized members of society.

Thanking the court for reducing the fine, the actor offered to assist in any matter of public interest.

"I thank you for your interest in reducing the costs imposed on me. I would like to mention that I moved the suit for relief to my immediate family as well as all citizens in the entire country," she said during the hearing, according to the ANI.

"I have been studying the effects of harmful radiation since 2010. Aspects related to my background and actions were totally ignored. It is a serious matter but it has been sidelined. I'm thankful that you acknowledged that the matter is serious," she added.