The court reaffirmed that an FIR can only be quashed in rare cases where allegations lack substance, emphasizing the duty to allow investigations into claims of criminal conduct.

ORDER :

1. In the world’s largest democracy, the freedom of speech and expression is the most crucial fundamental right conferred upon the citizens by the Constitution. The media is considered as the fourth pillar of democracy and it plays a vital role in a country’s social, political, economical and international affairs. Thus, it goes without saying that free press is a sine qua non for a democracy to survive and thrive and preserve the ethos of good and transparent governance.

2. Media is the voice of public at large and it plays a huge role in safeguarding the fundamental rights of the citizens. In India, media’s impact is massive- it brings out issues, highlights problem and it can even influence the policy making decisions of the government.

3. The media, be it electronic or print media, is generally called the fourth pillar of democracy. The media, in all its forms, whether electronic or print, discharges a very onerous duty of keeping the people knowledgeable and informed. The impact of media is far- reaching as it reaches not only the people physically but also influences them mentally. It creates opinions, broadcasts different points of view, brings to the fore wrongs and lapses of the Government and all other governing bodies and is an important tool in restraining corruption and other ill-effects of society. The media ensures that the individual actively participates in the decision-making process. The right to information is fundamental in encouraging the individual to be a part of the governing process. The enactment of the Right to Information Act is the most empowering step in this direction. The role of people in a democracy and that of active debate is essential for the functioning of a vibrant democracy.

4. With this immense power, comes the burden of responsibility. With the huge amount of information that they process, it is the responsibility of the media to ensure that they are not providing the public with information that is factually wrong, biased or simply unverified information.

5. Media is called the “voice of the people” because it serves as a platform for citizens to express their views, opinions and concerns to the government and wider public. It provides a way to spread information, hold those in power accountable and shape public opinion on important issues. However, this role is sometimes compromised by biased reporting or the spread of misinformation.

6. Media professionals are expected to avoid causing undue harm to anyone by way of threat or extortion, etc. This includes refraining from publishing or broadcasting the content, which constitutes harassment or defamation. Media professionals are expected to print and broadcast the true and correct information in the form of news. Media Professionals, Media Houses and Organizations are expected to adhere to core principles of journalism such as truth, accuracy and impartiality. They are not supposed to threaten anyone to extort anything by causing fear or pressure of incorrect reporting. This builds pubic trust and holds the press accountable for the information they disseminate.

FACTS OF THE CASE

1. By way of filing this petition, a prayers has been made to quash the impugned FIR No.257/2025 registered with the Police Station Ashok Nagar, Jaipur City (South) for the offences under Sections 308 (2), 318(4) and 351(2) of the BNS , 2023.

SUBMISSIONS BY COUNSEL FOR THE PETITIONER

2. Learned counsel for the petitioner submits that a bare reading of the contents of the impugned FIR does not reveal commission of any cognizable offence. Counsel submits that as per the