Today, On 20th January, The Supreme Court directed the Punjab Government not to take any coercive action against Punjab Kesari and allowed its Ludhiana printing press to resume operations while the dispute awaits a final judgment before the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
The Delhi High Court held that an acquitted or discharged person’s right to dignity and reputation under Article 21 can override press freedom under Article 19(1)(a). The Court upheld de-indexing of arrest-related news articles, noting that continued online availability causes lasting reputational harm.
Prashant Bhushan criticizes the BJP for overlooking attacks on democracy while recalling the 1975 Emergency, likening it to an ongoing “undeclared Emergency” that restricts rights and weakens institutions. He highlights the misuse of investigative agencies, erosion of judicial independence, and media compliance as threats to democracy, urging a reaffirmation of constitutional values.
Prashant Bhushan has accused the Modi government of undermining judicial independence through manipulation, threats, and surveillance of judges. He claims that the government pressures judges using blackmail and fosters fear, hindering democratic institutions, including the Election Commission. Bhushan urges civil society to counter this control and protect democracy in India.
