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.
In a landmark order, a Delhi court directed Google and major media houses to de-index articles linking a man to an ED case after he was fully cleared. The court said continued online presence of such reports harms dignity and serves no public interest.
The Madras High Court’s recent ruling reinforces the ‘Right to be Forgotten,’ acknowledging the importance of privacy and individuals’ ability to move on from past legal issues. This sets a precedent for similar cases, balancing public information and personal privacy in the digital age. The decision emphasizes the evolving nature of privacy rights and the impact of digital records on individuals’ lives.
