Supreme Court dismisses plea for Central Government authority to regulate media

The Supreme Court of India recently highlighted the importance of freedom of speech and expression while rejecting a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that called for the creation of a "Broadcast Regulatory Authority of India '' for the purpose of regulating and facilitating development of broadcasting services in India.

The petition was filed by Reepak Kansal in 2020 in the backdrop of the coverage of Sushant Singh Rajput case. The purpose of the PIL was to restrain broadcasting channels from undermining individual dignity.

The petitioner additionally requested limits on media trials, parallel trial, judgmental views and interfering in the administration of justice. The petitioner also urged to "restrict the assassination of dignity of individual, community, religious saint, religious and political organisation by broadcasting electronic channels in the name of freedom of press."

The bench pointed out the broad scope of the prayers in the petition, while acknowledging the concerns regarding the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression.

"Firstly, we must note here that the prayers are too wide. Secondly, we have to also keep in mind the fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression. We therefore, decline to entertain this petition under Article 32 of the Constitution of India. The Writ Petition is accordingly rejected," the bench said.

"If the petitioner so desires, he can always make a representation to the appropriate authorities pointing out alleged illegalities committed by news channels," the bench added.

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