The Supreme Court has issued a directive to the central government urging it to take decisive action against the online misuse of court feeds.
Key Developments
The court’s order follows concerns that live broadcasts of court proceedings are being exploited for misinformation and sensationalism. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench that recommendations from multiple High Courts and other stakeholders have been collected and forwarded to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
"Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submits that suggestions from various High Courts and other stakeholders have been received and forwarded to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology."
Background & Context
In recent years, court livestreams have become popular on social media platforms, enabling the public to watch proceedings in real time. While this transparency has many benefits, it has also raised concerns about the potential for selective editing, sensational commentary, and the spread of unverified information that can prejudice ongoing cases.
Impact & Analysis
- For West Bengal courts: The directive may lead to the implementation of stricter guidelines on the recording and dissemination of court proceedings.
- For journalists and media houses: New protocols could require prior clearance before broadcasting or sharing court feeds.
- For litigants: Greater oversight may reduce the risk of public bias affecting case outcomes.
- For online platforms: Operators may need to collaborate with the Ministry to ensure compliance with any forthcoming regulations.
What Happens Next
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is expected to draft a set of safeguards and enforcement mechanisms. A follow‑up hearing with the Supreme Court is likely to be scheduled within the next few months to review the proposed measures and assess their effectiveness.
The directive underscores the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of legal proceedings while balancing public access to justice.
