Goonj – India Law Blog & Insights on Society and Spirituality

FROM COURTROOM TO CINEMA: THE LEGAL FIGHT TO STOP 'HAQ' FAILS In a significant ruling for artistic expression, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has rejected the petition filed by Siddiqua Begum Khan, the daughter of the late Shah Bano Begum, who sought to restrain the release of the upcoming Bollywood film, Haq . The judgment clears the path for the film — which is inspired by the monumental Shah Bano maintenance case of 1985 — to hit theatres as scheduled. BACKGROUND The Shah Bano Begum case (1985) was not just a legal battle for a paltry sum of money; it was a deeply personal tragedy that ignited a political and religious firestorm that fundamentally shook the foundations of secular India. It was the story of a frail, aging woman's desperate fight for dignity against a powerful ex-husband, a rigid religious patriarchy, and ultimately, a government that chose political expediency over her human rights. THE BETRAYAL OF A WIFE Shah Bano, a simple, traditional woman i...

Child Influencers in India 2025: Legal Rights, Risks & Protection 🌐 Introduction Child influencers, also known as “kidfluencers,” have emerged as a global phenomenon. Some children now earn millions of Rupees through social media sponsorships and brand collaborations. While this highlights talent and creativity, it also raises ethical, legal, and social concerns around child exploitation, privacy, and mental health. Kidfluencers create content documenting daily life, toys, games, and vlogs aimed at other children. This content generates massive online followings and commercial profit, making child influencers both participants and earners in the digital economy. 📖 Who Are Child Influencers? Child influencers are children under legal age who gain significant social media presence by creating content. Their videos, posts, and vlogs often generate revenue through sponsorships, advertisements, and merchandise. ⚖️ Legal Framework in India Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulatio...