SC bans posting, reposting of court hearing clips without prior permission
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court passed an interim order banning social media and digital media platforms from transmitting, storing, uploading, posting or reposting clips of court proceedings without prior permission from the top court or the concerned high court. The order came after the court took strong exception to selective use of live-streamed proceedings, saying such clips were being used to malign the judiciary.
Background
The order was passed during the hearing of a PIL filed by a journalist seeking guidelines to regulate clipping, editing, dissemination and monetisation of audio/video recordings of court proceedings on digital platforms. The petition argued that selective, edited and decontextualised clips were distorting courtroom proceedings and undermining public confidence.
Key facts
Supreme Court passed an interim order on July 24, 2026.
Bans social media and digital media from transmitting, storing, uploading, posting or reposting clips of court proceedings without prior permission.
Permission must be obtained from the Supreme Court or the concerned High Court.
Order applies to all digital platforms, including social media.
Court took strong exception to selective use of live-streamed clips that maligned the judiciary.
The order does not affect fair and accurate news reporting of court proceedings.
The PIL was filed by a journalist seeking guidelines on clipping, editing, dissemination and monetisation of court recordings.
Petition argued that selective clips distort proceedings and erode public confidence in the justice system.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court interim order dated July 24, 2026
- PIL filed by journalist
- Related to live-streamed court proceedings
- Applies to social media and digital media platforms
- Exception for fair and accurate news reporting
Mains angles
- GS2 Polity: Judiciary - independence, contempt of court, media and judiciary interface
- GS2 Polity: Fundamental Rights - freedom of speech and expression vs. dignity of judiciary
- GS2 Polity: Role of PIL in regulating digital content
- GS3: Media law and ethics in digital age