Paradise files case against a social media channel

Paradise believes that a customer and the Instagram channel have apparently hatched a criminal conspiracy with some vested interest and ill-motivated persons to extort money and defame Paradise Food Court in the public thereby harming business interest to the tune of crores of rupees

Hyderabad: Paradise Food Court has lodged a FIR at Begumpet Police against an Instagram channel which has allegedly uploaded a fake video displaying issues in Paradise Haleem. In an effort to defame the popular food chain, the Instagram channel with handle ‘telanganacrimefiles2023’ has been sharing a fake defamatory video on Paradise on the said Instagram account and other multiple WhatsApp groups.

According to Paradise, the video was not taken by the said Instagram Channel, nor did they visit their outlet at that time. Paradise also believes the uploaded video is obviously intended to harm the reputation of Paradise and to gain undue publicity from the same. Paradise has also complained that the perpetrators are extorting them and seeking monetary benefits to remove the video.

Paradise believes that a customer and the Instagram channel have apparently hatched a criminal conspiracy with some vested interest and ill-motivated persons to extort money and defame Paradise Food Court in the public thereby harming business interest to the tune of crores of rupees. Paradise has sought justice and hopes the culprits are dealt with by authorities and due action is taken against the individuals responsible for creating and sharing the defamatory 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 evidences 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.”

He further added that “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.”

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 (Hyderabad) of National Restaurants Association of India (NRAI), which is the voice of the Indian restaurant industry representing the interests of over five lakh restaurants have stated, “NRAI recognises 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,” he further said.