Supreme Court Urges Judicial Restraint in the Era of Live Streaming
In a recent development, the Supreme Court has emphasized the need for judicial restraint in the age of live streaming and widespread media coverage. The Court issued a caution to judges, highlighting the importance of exercising responsibility and care when making oral remarks during court proceedings.
The directive came in response to controversial comments made by Justice Rajbir Sehrawat of the Punjab and Haryana High Court on July 17. Justice Sehrawat had criticized the Supreme Court for staying a High Court order and expressed dissatisfaction with the Supreme Court’s role in contempt proceedings. These remarks, which were widely circulated through video, prompted the Supreme Court to take suo motu cognizance of the issue.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud and Justices Sanjiv Khanna, BR Gavai, Surya Kant, and Hrishikesh Roy noted that the video of Justice Sehrawat’s remarks included “random, gratuitous, and unnecessary” comments. The Court observed that in the context of live streaming and extensive media reporting, such observations can undermine the sanctity of judicial proceedings.
The Supreme Court expressed concern that these remarks could potentially harm the integrity of the judicial process. While the Court refrained from issuing a formal notice to Justice Sehrawat, it emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and responsibility in judicial remarks.
In its order, the Supreme Court decided to expunge the controversial remarks made by Justice Sehrawat from the July 17 order. The Court underscored its commitment to intervening when necessary but expressed hope that such measures would not be required in the future.
(With inputs from agency)
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