Justice Sanjay Karol, a Supreme Court judge, has voiced concerns about the reporting of judges’ actions and comments on online platforms. He emphasized that judges should not be treated as celebrities, and minute-by-minute reporting of their activities is not appropriate. Justice Karol shared his views during a panel discussion on the impact of social media on the justice delivery system at the Bar Council of India’s International Lawyers’ Conference.

Responsible Reporting

Justice Karol highlighted the importance of responsible reporting, stating that sensational headlines and reporting without context can lead to misunderstandings. He cautioned against the practice of making viral snippets of oral observations or queries from court proceedings appear as final court decisions. Such misrepresentation can harm the credibility of judges and lawyers and lead to personal attacks on social media.

Misinterpretation and Media Trials

The judge expressed concern that unchecked and unverified information readily available on the internet can lead to misinterpretation, sparking heated debates and media trials. He stressed that the public often lacks awareness of the nuances of court proceedings and the process leading to judgments. Justice Karol called for educating the media about the restrictions on freedom of speech.

Freedom of Speech and Social Media

Justice Karol acknowledged the importance of freedom of speech, a cherished value of the Indian Constitution. While he did not advocate for legislation to regulate social media, he encouraged discussions on these issues, seeking input from young people.

Conclusion

Justice Sanjay Karol’s remarks underscore the need for responsible and context-aware reporting on judges and court proceedings. He emphasized that judges should not be treated as celebrities and called for a better understanding of the complexities of the legal system in media reporting.