Media cannot be stopped from reporting discussions, SC on EC protest

The Supreme Court on Monday told the Election Commission that their prayer to stop media from reporting oral observations is too far-fetched and cannot be allowed. A bench headed by Justice DY Chandrachud was hearing the poll panel's plea challenging the Madras HC's 'murder charges' remark. "The media is powerful and communicating what happens in court. Not only our judgements, but raising of questions, answers and dialogues is a concern for citizens. Media not reporting observations is far-fetched," the Supreme Court told the Election Commission.

The Supreme Court replied that the Election Commission is the constitutional authority to conduct elections. "We cannot in today's time say that media will not report the contents of court hearing. Discussions taking place in the High Court have equal public interest as the final order of the court," it said. Media is a very powerful watchdog in protecting the sanctity of this process." "It fosters a sense of faith in the community," he said

Senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi is appearing for the Election Commission. The EC had sought that media should not be allowed to report on oral observations of the court, and that no criminal complaint can be filed on the basis of oral observations of the court. Justice Chandrachud said, "We cannot say that media will not report the discussion that takes place in Court. The discussion that takes place is in as much public interest as the final order of the Court. The discussion in Court is a dialogue between the bar and the bench. Media is a very powerful watchdog in protecting the sanctity of this process." "It fosters a sense of faith in the community," he said.