The Kerala High Court emphasized the need for responsible media reporting, cautioning against “media trials” that presuppose guilt or innocence in ongoing cases. While freedom of speech is fundamental, it must not overshadow the judiciary’s role or the accused’s right to a fair trial, warning against prejudicing public opinion.
The Delhi High Court ordered the removal of derogatory tweets and a YouTube video by BJP leader Sanju Verma against Congress spokesperson Dr. Shama Mohamed. Justice Vikas Mahajan criticized Verma’s comments as defamatory and emphasized the importance of reputation, urging responsible speech in public discourse, especially for political figures.
Today, On 24th October, the Supreme Court provided interim protection to journalist Mamta Tripathi, who faced multiple FIRs for tweeting about caste bias in Uttar Pradesh’s administration. The Court has requested the state government’s response to her plea for quashing the FIRs, emphasizing journalists’ rights under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
![[Hate Speech Case] HC Temporarily Stays Criminal Proceedings Against Former Union Minister Basanagoudar Patil Yatnal](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/image-2-9.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Karnataka High Court temporarily stayed all criminal proceedings against Basanagoudar Patil Yatnal, a former Union Minister and BJP leader, related to a 2022 hate speech case. Yatnal’s remarks, perceived as inciting communal tension, drew public outrage and legal action, but he claims the allegations are politically motivated. The court’s stay offers him temporary relief.
The Editors Guild of India (EGI) has expressed concerns to Union Home Minister Amit Shah about potential misuse of new criminal laws against journalists. They emphasize the need for additional safeguards and proposed a review of the laws to prevent frivolous prosecution. The Guild seeks protection of media freedom under the Indian Constitution and requests a meeting with Shah to address these issues.
![[Shivaji Title Row] 'Police Exceeded Authority' By seeking Probe Against Professor: Bombay HC](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/bombay_hc_new_angle_2-sixteen_nine.jpeg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Bombay High Court criticized Satara police for instructing a college to probe a professor for not using a specific title for historical figure Shivaji. The court emphasized the police exceeded their authority and questioned their understanding of free speech. The police unconditionally withdrew the directive following the court intervention.
The State Bank of India (SBI) has approached the Supreme Court seeking an extension for disclosing details of electoral bonds encashed by political parties. The Supreme Court of India, under the leadership of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, is set to deliberate on a crucial plea from the State Bank of India (SBI). The State Bank […]
