The Supreme Court has clarified that its earlier interim order regulating the use of audio and video recordings of court proceedings does not impose any blanket ban on reporting by recognised news organisations. The Court stated that accredited media outlets are free to continue reporting court proceedings and informing the public about important legal developments, provided they do not use audio or video clips of courtroom proceedings in their coverage.

The clarification came in an order dated July 31, passed by a Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana.

Court Removes Confusion Over Earlier Order

The Bench noted that despite its earlier clarification, some confusion had persisted regarding the scope of the interim directions issued on July 24.

To remove any ambiguity, the Court observed:

"The order is not to be construed as imposing a blanket prohibition on the reporting of court proceedings by recognised news outlets. Such outlets may, therefore, continue to report on the proceedings and inform the general public of legal developments and judicial pronouncements, save that audio or video clips of the court proceedings shall not be utilised in the course of such reportage."

The Court emphasized that the restriction applies only to the use and dissemination of audio or video recordings, not to journalistic reporting of court proceedings.

Audio-Video Recordings Still Restricted

While permitting continued media coverage, the Supreme Court reiterated that recognised news organisations must comply with the restrictions imposed under its earlier interim order.

The July 24 order prohibits, without prior permission:

• Extracting audio or video recordings of court proceedings;
• Disseminating or uploading such recordings;
• Posting or reposting them on social media;
• Monetising courtroom recordings;
• Modifying, storing, hosting, or transmitting such recordings through digital platforms.

Permission for using such recordings must be obtained from the Secretary General of the Supreme Court or the Registrar General of the concerned High Court, as applicable.

Directions To Centre And High Courts

Apart from clarifying the media's role, the Court has also directed the Union Government to place before it a proposal, prepared in consultation with the concerned ministries, on implementing the reliefs sought in the petition.

The Court has further asked all High Courts to submit status reports regarding the adoption of the Model Rules for Live Streaming and Recording of Court Proceedings and explain the feasibility of ensuring continuous and uninterrupted live streaming of court proceedings.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on September 18.