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The Kerala High Court has issued a landmark ruling, emphasizing the importance of separating the roles of the media and the judiciary in criminal cases. The court asserted that the media's freedom of speech and expression, enshrined in Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution, does not extend to pronouncing on an accused's guilt or innocence before legal authorities reach a verdict. This ruling was prompted by three writ petitions seeking to curtail the media's powers in covering active investigations and ongoing trials, highlighting concerns over the phenomenon of “media trials.”
The court acknowledged the media's crucial role in informing the public but stressed that unrestricted reporting can have detrimental effects on the judicial process. The ruling noted that media trials can unfairly influence public opinion, potentially leading to “pre-judgment” of suspects, effectively functioning as a “kangaroo court.” This pre-judgment can undermine the presumption of innocence, a fundamental principle of the justice system, and erode public trust in judicial outcomes if the media's narrative deviates from the final verdict.
The Kerala High Court's ruling is a significant reminder that the freedom of the press, while essential for a democratic society, is not absolute. The court emphasized that this freedom is subject to reasonable restrictions, particularly when it encroaches upon an individual's right to privacy and dignity, protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. The court urged media outlets to exercise caution and avoid expressing definitive opinions on cases still under investigation, ensuring that their reporting remains factual and balanced. This approach not only safeguards the rights of the accused but also upholds the integrity and fairness of the judicial process.
The ruling underscores the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the right to a fair trial. The court's decision to restrict the media's role in pronouncements of guilt or innocence marks a significant step towards safeguarding the judicial process from undue influence and maintaining public confidence in the administration of justice.
Source: Media's freedom not a licence to decide guilt: Kerala High Court