PRAYAGRAJ: Allahabad high court has directed the media to observe due restraint while reporting on the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah case and said misrepresentation of the proceedings could undermine the sanctity of judicial processes.
It warned that inaccurate or irresponsible reporting may invite contempt proceedings.
Issuing this directive while hearing the Krishna Janmabhoomi case on Nov 28, Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra said the media should maintain the dignity and sanctity of the judicial proceedings. During the hearing in suit number 18 of the dispute, counsels had raised concerns about misreporting in the media and urged the court to set guidelines for responsible reporting.
The bench did not ban media coverage of the Krishna Janmbhoomi case but underscored that any reporting which distorts the factual essence of the case would be deemed as contempt of court.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on Dec 4.
The original suits in the case sought removal of the Shahi Idgah Masjid situated in Mathura on the grounds that it was built over the Krishna Janmabhoomi land. Additional pleas include seeking possession of the Shahi Idgah premises and demolishing the present structure.