The Supreme Court of India, led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, issued a directive on Wednesday, instructing the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to craft a comprehensive manual governing media briefings conducted by police personnel concerning criminal cases. This move comes in response to concerns regarding biased reporting and the potential infringement of privacy rights.
In a significant development, the apex court acknowledged the detrimental impact of biased reporting on public perception and the presumption of innocence for individuals involved in criminal cases. The bench underscored that such reporting could lead to unwarranted suspicions about an individual’s guilt, potentially compromising the integrity of ongoing investigations.
Furthermore, the court emphasized the need to safeguard the privacy rights of victims in criminal cases, recognizing that media reports could inadvertently violate their confidentiality and dignity.
As part of its directive, the Supreme Court has also called upon the Directors General of Police (DGPs) from all states to contribute their insights and suggestions within a month to the Ministry of Home Affairs for the formulation of this crucial manual. The court extended its invitation for the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to provide recommendations as well.
The directive was issued during the court’s consideration of a plea focused on the procedures followed by police when conducting media briefings in cases where investigations are ongoing.
The Chenab Times News Desk