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DELHI HIGH COURT
D.N.PATEL, JASMEET SINGH
Lalit Valecha – Appellant
Versus
Union of India – Respondent
| Table of Content |
|---|
| 1. concerns on media reporting during a pandemic. (Para 1 , 2) |
| 2. no restriction on accurate news broadcasting. (Para 3 , 4) |
| 3. writ petition dismissed. (Para 5) |
JUDGMENT
D.N. Patel, Chief Justice (Oral)
Proceedings in the matter have been conducted through video conferencing.
C.M.No.15656-57/2021 (exemptions)
For the reasons stated in the applications and in view of the present prevailing situation, the present applications are allowed subject to just exceptions. However, the applicant is directed to file duly signed and affirmed affidavits within a period of one week from the date of resumption of regular functioning of the Court.
The applications are disposed of.
W.P.(C) No.5109/2021 & C.M.No.15655/2021 (for interim orders)
1. This so-called public interest has been preferred with the following prayers:
"i. Issue a writ, order or direction in the nature of Mandamus, thereby, directing Union of India to frame guidelines in a time bound manner for airing of news articles of sensitive nature such as reporting of mass scale deaths, sufferings by the people, etc. by the broadcasters/TV channels and restraining the broadcasters/TV channels from spreading negativity, sen
Accurate news reporting during health crises is essential, and censorship based on perceived negativity is not justified.
Compulsion for plasma donation from recovered Covid-19 patients by the court is outside judicial purview; frivolous petitions do not merit public interest litigation.
Public interest litigation must be substantiated with concrete evidence rather than speculative claims; courts will dismiss frivolous petitions that lack due diligence.
The court ruled that freedom of the press must prevail, and casual conversations aimed at public awareness about COVID cannot form the basis of criminal proceedings.
The Court's decision was based on the change in circumstances, leading to the petition's irrelevance
The judgment emphasizes the right of the electronic and print media to communicate news and information, even if critical of the prevailing regime, in the context of freedom of speech and expression ....
Public authorities have an obligation to address representations from citizens and ensure public health transparency, particularly during a crisis.
Courts may dismiss public interest litigations challenging public health measures if the petitioner lacks expertise in the relevant field and the measures are in line with global efforts to prevent t....
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