Delhi high court issues notice on web series UP 77 based on gangster Vikas Dubey

The Delhi high court has issued a notice on a petition seeking to halt the release of the upcoming web series ‘up 77’ , reportedly based on the life of notorious gangster Vikas Dubey . The series, which dramatizes Dubey’s criminal career and high-profile encounters with law enforcement, is scheduled to premiere on december 25, 2025 , on the waves ott platform.

‘UP 77’ is reportedly inspired by several major incidents from Dubey’s life, including the Bikru village ambush in July 2020 , when a police team attempting to arrest him and his gang was attacked, resulting in the deaths of eight police personnel . The series also draws from Dubey’s surrender in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh , and his subsequent death in a police encounter while being transported back to Uttar Pradesh. Earlier incidents in Dubey’s criminal record, such as allegations of murder inside a police station and violent crimes over decades, provide the backdrop for the series, though the exact dramatized narrative remains contested.

The series is promoted as “based on true events” and “inspired by real incidents” , featuring Vikram Kochhar in a lead role, along with actors portraying law enforcement officers and associates of Dubey’s gang. Pankaj Sharma , an FTII-trained actor, reportedly plays an STF officer confronting Dubey. Specific details about the director, writer, or overall budget have not been officially disclosed, and industry sources have not confirmed the full creative team or investment figures.

The legal challenge comes from Richa Dubey, the widow of the slain gangster, who filed the petition under Article 226 of the Constitution and is represented by advocate Azra Khan. She claims that ‘UP 77’ portrays private and marital aspects of her life without consent, including identifiable characters, personal relationships, and private events linked to her family. The petition alleges that the series sensationalises and fictionalises deeply personal matters for commercial gain, constituting a serious violation of her privacy, dignity, and reputation, which are protected under Article 21.

During the hearing, Justice Sachin Datta issued notices to the Union government, the OTT platform, and the producers of the show, seeking their responses. The court has scheduled further arguments for Wednesday, when it will decide whether to stay the release and streaming of the series.

Richa Dubey also highlighted the emotional, psychological, and social distress suffered by her minor sons following their father’s death, stating that the release of the series could reopen old wounds, expose the family to public ridicule, and even endanger their safety.

According to official records, Vikas Dubey was killed in a police encounter on July 10, 2020, after the vehicle transporting him from Ujjain to Kanpur overturned and he allegedly attempted to flee. Dubey had been the main accused in the killing of eight police personnel, making him one of the most notorious criminals in the region.

The legal battle over ‘UP 77’ has reignited debates in India about privacy, artistic licence, and the portrayal of real-life criminal cases on digital platforms. The high court’s decision on Wednesday will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how true events and sensitive figures are depicted in future OTT productions.