No media trial in ongoing investigations; PCI rules apply to TV channels: Bombay HC

Taking cognizance of the media trial and intense scrutiny, especially pertaining to the Sushant Singh Rajput death case, the Bombay High Court has asked news channels to show restraint while covering ongoing investigation cases. Taking a strong view on the vitriolic spewed in toxic debates and discussions in such cases, the Court also asked the news channels to regulate their coverage.

The Bombay High Court asked the news channels to keep their reports informative and in public interest instead of sensationalising the issue. The Court noted that speculative coverage could impact the investigation. The Court further stated that the guidelines of Press Council of India would also apply to electronic media till the time separate guidelines for the electronic media were framed.

The Court was hearing a slew of PILs filed by lawyers, NGOs, activists as well as retires police officers, who pleaded with the Court to put an end to the media trial in ongoing investigations.

The Bombay High Court has, however, refrained from taking any action in this regard and instead asked the Mumbai Police to appoint a nodal officer for media briefings in important cases.