Zia Chishti Wins Defamation Case Against The Telegraph, Receives Apology

Zia Chishti won a defamation case against The Telegraph, which issued a formal apology acknowledging false allegations. Chishti expressed relief over the settlement, which includes an apology and financial compensation. He hopes for vindication from the U.S. Congress while facing business challenges following the allegations.

Zia Chishti, a prominent Pakistani-American businessman and recipient of the Sitara-e-Imtiaz honor, has emerged victorious in a defamation lawsuit against The Telegraph, adjudicated at the Royal Court of Justice in London. The British newspaper publicly apologized, acknowledging that the allegations it published against Chishti were false, misleading, and defamatory.

The defamation claims originated from allegations made by Chishti’s former employee, Tatiana Spottiswood. In light of these accusations, The Telegraph had originally asserted the claims as true and in the public interest. However, prior to the trial, the publication chose to reach an out-of-court settlement, recognizing its misjudgment regarding the veracity of the allegations.

As a condition of the settlement, The Telegraph will issue a formal apology to Chishti, which will be disseminated in both print and online formats. This apology will be prominently displayed above the original articles alleging misdeeds. Additionally, the newspaper has committed to providing financial compensation to Chishti and covering his legal expenses.

Upon learning of the settlement, Chishti expressed relief, 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 aspirations for the newly elected U.S. Congress to allow him a similar opportunity to vindicate his name.

Following the allegations made against him, Chishti resigned from significant positions within his companies. Notably, his company Afiniti faced bankruptcy three years later, while his other venture, The Resource Group, continues to suffer from financial difficulties and a decline in stock value. In recognition of his contributions to business and technology, Chishti was awarded Pakistan’s Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2018.

Zia Chishti’s successful defamation case against The Telegraph marks a significant moment in his efforts to restore his reputation after enduring substantial hardship due to unfounded allegations. The settlement includes a formal apology and financial compensation from the newspaper. Moving forward, Chishti hopes to gain further support in clearing his name from the U.S. Congress, amidst ongoing challenges faced by his business endeavors.

Original Source: dunyanews.tv