Supreme Court Bars Social Media Posting of Proceedings, Not a Gag Order
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court has prohibited the live-streaming or posting of court proceedings on social media platforms, clarifying that it is not a gag order and does not affect news reporting. This decision addresses concerns over the misuse of court footage for entertainment or commercial purposes.
Background
The Supreme Court has been live-streaming its proceedings since 2018 under the 'Live Streaming of Supreme Court Proceedings' initiative. However, some channels and social media accounts were repurposing clips for commentary or entertainment, leading to this clarification.
Key facts
The Supreme Court barred posting of court proceedings on social media platforms.
The order does not affect news reporting of court proceedings.
The Court clarified it is not a gag order.
The decision aims to prevent misuse of court footage for entertainment or commercial gain.
Live-streaming of proceedings continues as before.
The order applies to all social media platforms.
Violation may attract contempt of court proceedings.
Prelims pointers
- Supreme Court of India
- Contempt of Court Act, 1971
- Live Streaming of Supreme Court Proceedings (2018)
- Article 129: Supreme Court as court of record
- Article 142: Enforcement of decrees and orders of Supreme Court
- Freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a)
Mains angles
- GS2: Judiciary – Independence, transparency, and accountability
- GS2: Freedom of speech and expression vs. reasonable restrictions
- GS2: Contempt of court and its scope
- GS2: Role of media in reporting court proceedings