The Delhi High Court on Wednesday directed social media platforms to remove videos related to the recusal hearing in the excise policy case. The court observed that the circulation of such videos amounts to contempt of court and a breach of privacy.
Court's Directive
Justice Yashwant Varma issued the order after noting that the videos of the proceedings, which were not part of the official record, were being widely shared on platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. The court directed these platforms to take down the content within 24 hours.
Background of the Case
The excise policy case involves allegations of corruption in the formulation and implementation of Delhi's now-scrapped excise policy. Several politicians and businesspersons have been named in the case, leading to multiple hearings and legal battles.
The recusal hearing was related to a plea seeking the recusal of a judge from the case. The videos captured portions of this hearing, which the court deemed sensitive and not meant for public dissemination.
Contempt Proceedings
The court also warned that any further sharing of such videos would invite contempt proceedings. It emphasized that the integrity of judicial proceedings must be maintained and that unauthorized recording or broadcasting of court hearings is a serious offense.
Social media platforms have been asked to submit compliance reports by the next hearing date. The court has also sought details of the individuals who originally uploaded the videos.
Reactions
Legal experts have welcomed the order, stating that it upholds the sanctity of the judiciary. However, some have raised concerns about the implications for freedom of speech and press. The court clarified that the order is specific to the videos in question and does not curb legitimate reporting.
The next hearing in the excise policy case is scheduled for next month.
