Kochi: The Kerala High Court has clarified that media freedom does not extend to interfering with the judicial process, emphasizing that reporting must respect individuals’ rights to privacy, dignity, and a fair trial. In a comprehensive 69-page ruling, a five-judge bench, comprising Justices AK Jayasankaran Nambiar, Kauser Edappagath, Mohammed Nias CP, CS Sudha, and Syam Kumar VM, unanimously stated that while the press and media hold constitutional rights to report on criminal cases and investigations, these rights do not allow them to assume the role of investigators, prosecutors, or judges.
The court emphasized that media reporting should not prejudice ongoing criminal cases or pronounce judgments ahead of judicial proceedings, as such actions infringe upon both the accused and victim’s right to fair treatment. Moreover, the judges underscored that unprofessional, distorted, or misleading coverage can violate legal protections guaranteed under the Constitution, and that any such misconduct by media entities would be legally actionable.
The ruling advocates for responsible journalism, urging the media to voluntarily establish ethical boundaries to avoid media trials, which can prematurely influence public opinion and undermine judicial integrity. The bench advised the press to be cautious when discussing pending criminal matters, stressing that only judicial authorities are entitled to determine guilt or innocence. This guidance, they argued, would reinforce fundamental rights and promote a more accountable media environment. The court expressed hope that the ruling would foster a culture of self-regulated, responsible journalism in India.
