Zia Chishti Wins Defamation Case Against The Telegraph in London

Zia Chishti has won a defamation case against The Telegraph, which has issued a formal apology and admitted that its allegations were false. The settlement includes damages for Chishti and a commitment to publish a retraction in its print and online editions. Chishti expressed relief at the outcome after facing significant hardship over three years due to the accusations.

Zia Chishti, a Pakistani-American businessman and recipient of the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, has successfully won a defamation case against The Telegraph at the Royal Court of Justice in London. The British newspaper has publicly acknowledged that its allegations against Chishti were unfounded, misleading, and defamatory, resulting in a formal apology.

The case originated from allegations of sexual harassment made by Chishti’s former employee, Tatiana Spottiswood, which The Telegraph had reported. However, prior to the commencement of the trial, the newspaper opted for an out-of-court settlement, retracting its earlier statement that the allegations were true and in the public interest.

As part of this settlement, The Telegraph will print a formal apology to Chishti in its print and online publications. This apology will be prominently displayed above the articles containing the prior allegations. Additionally, The Telegraph has agreed to pay damages to Chishti and cover his legal expenses.

Chishti responded to the settlement by expressing gratitude, stating, “I never committed the acts that The Telegraph and Tatiana Spottiswood accused me of. My family and I have endured three and a half years of hardship, and my reputation and business interests suffered greatly.” He also voiced hope that the newly elected U.S. Congress would provide him an opportunity to clear his name as his accuser had.

Following the allegations, Chishti stepped down from leadership roles in his companies. His company, Afiniti, filed for bankruptcy three years post-resignation, while his other venture, The Resource Group, continues to experience financial difficulties and a declining stock valuation. In recognition of his contributions to business and technology, Zia Chishti received Pakistan’s Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2018.

Zia Chishti’s legal battle against The Telegraph underscores the impact of unverified allegations on an individual’s reputation and business. The newspaper’s retraction and apology serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible journalism. Through this settlement, Chishti is not only vindicated but also highlights the long-lasting effects that such accusations can have on a person’s professional life. He now anticipates further opportunities to reclaim his name within public discourse.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv