Ben Padarath has been released on bail following the prosecution’s failure to provide essential disclosures in his ongoing case. Padarath is accused of sharing an altered newspaper article on social media that allegedly contained false and misleading claims about two notable individuals.
During the bail hearing, Magistrate Yogesh Prasad determined that the prosecution’s assertion of “public interest” did not adequately counter the arguments for bail. Under investigation is a violation of Section 24 of the Online Safety Act 2018, which addresses the harm caused by posting harmful electronic communications.
Padarath was arrested in Nadi and faces a charge related to causing harm through electronic communication. He has been released on a bond of $4,000 and has secured two sureties. As part of his bail conditions, all travel documents have been surrendered, and he is prohibited from creating any social media profiles—whether using his real name or an alias—and must refrain from any further offenses.
The case will return to court on February 18 of next year, allowing time for the prosecution to gather its disclosures and for Padarath to prepare his defense. This situation underscores ongoing concerns regarding the circulation of misinformation on social media and the legal implications that arise from it, reflecting a broader issue in today’s digital landscape.
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