Streaming Of Judicial Proceedings Widens Judicial Accountability

Nithya Sri. S, ICFAI Law School, Hyderabad

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) is vital to democracy. Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution includes the right to publish a faithful report of the proceedings that they had witnessed and heard in Court as journalists. Media is an independent body that challenges the Government, it can be referred to as the fourth pillar of democracy alongside the judiciary, legislative, and executive bodies of the Government. Media derives its rights from the right to freedom of speech and expression available to all the citizens. Publicity of court proceedings enhances public knowledge and appreciation of the working of the law and the administration of justice.

The Supreme Court of India also held “Freedom of speech and expression extends to reporting the proceedings of judicial institutions as well”. Courts must be open both in the physical and metaphorical sense. Save and except for in-camera proceedings in an exceptional category of cases, such as cases involving child sexual abuse or matrimonial proceedings bearing on matters of marital privacy, our legal system is founded on the principle that open access to courts is essential to safeguard valuable constitutional freedoms.