Journalists Shazia Nisar and Adarsh Jha were arrested by Noida Police for allegedly blackmailing Bharat24 CMD Jagdish Chandra with a fake rape case threat and extorting money. Both are now in judicial custody.
NBDSA has instructed all news broadcasters to ensure thumbnails and tickers accurately reflect the program’s content. This follows a complaint against Times Now Navbharat for a misleading thumbnail suggesting harassment by Muslim men, which contradicted the women’s actual statements in the interview, highlighting broader concerns over media accuracy and communal harmony.
Today, On 18th December, During hearing on Alt-News Co-founder Mohammed Zubair’s plea, the Allahabad High Court stated, “Whatever Yati Narsinghanand says, you cannot go to social media.” Zubair is challenging an FIR that accuses him of promoting enmity through a post on ‘X.’ The court highlighted the importance of addressing grievances through legal avenues instead of social media. The case focuses on finding a balance between free speech and its potential misuse in inciting public unrest.
Today, On 16th December, the Bar Council of India informed the Supreme Court that practicing advocates cannot work full-time as journalists, citing Rule 49 to prevent conflicts of interest. The court and petitioner acknowledged this stance, emphasizing the necessity for advocates to focus solely on their legal responsibilities to maintain professional integrity and public trust.
The Karnataka High Court fined The New Indian Express Rs.10 lakh for irresponsible reporting on a sensitive judicial matter, leading to charges being dropped against a judge. Justice NS Sanjay Gowda criticized the publication for disclosing sensitive information without giving the implicated parties a chance to respond. The court emphasized the need for responsible journalism and called for an internal inquiry into the leaked report.