The Patna High Court ruled that media can report criminal proceedings but should avoid labels like “mastermind” or “kingpin” that suggest guilt before trial. Justice Ansul said prejudicial reporting may harm an accused’s reputation and amount to defamatory or improper conduct during pending cases.
The Delhi High Court quashed the EOW FIR and ED’s ECIR against NewsClick and founder Prabir Purkayastha, holding that allegations concerning FDI and financial irregularities disclosed no cognisable offence. The Court termed the proceedings mala fide and an abuse of power targeting independent journalism.
The Delhi High Court strongly criticised Newslaundry journalist Manisha Pande for using the word “shit” while commenting on TV Today Network’s content, calling it gross and indecent. The Court warned that such language could invite serious observations and orders that may severely affect her professional career.
