SC bars unauthorised use of live-streamed court proceedings online
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court has passed an interim order prohibiting the unauthorised extraction, editing, and dissemination of live-streamed court proceedings on social media and digital platforms. This move aims to protect the integrity of judicial proceedings and prevent misuse of court content.
Background
The Supreme Court began live-streaming its proceedings in 2018 following a landmark judgment in the Swapnil Tripathi case, which recognised the right to access court proceedings as part of the right to information under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. However, concerns arose over the misuse of such content for commercial or sensational purposes.
Key facts
The Supreme Court issued an interim order barring unauthorised extraction, editing, uploading, reposting, or dissemination of live-streamed court proceedings.
The order applies to social media and other digital platforms.
Prior permission from the Secretary General of the Supreme Court is required for any use of live-streamed content.
The order aims to prevent misuse and maintain the dignity of court proceedings.
Live-streaming of court proceedings was introduced in 2018 following the Swapnil Tripathi case.
The order is interim, meaning it is temporary until further orders.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court interim order on live-streamed proceedings
- Swapnil Tripathi case (2018) - right to live-stream court proceedings
- Article 19(1)(a) - freedom of speech and expression
- Right to Information under Article 19(1)(a)
- Secretary General of Supreme Court
Mains angles
- Discuss the balance between transparency in judiciary and the need to prevent misuse of court proceedings.
- Critically examine the role of technology in enhancing access to justice while safeguarding judicial integrity.
- Analyse the constitutional validity of restrictions on dissemination of court proceedings under Article 19(1)(a).