Overview
The Supreme Court, led by CJI Surya Kant, expressed alarm over the role of डिजिटल प्लेटफ़ॉर्म in shaping public opinion. During a hearing on a petition seeking to curb police posting of accused‑persons’ photographs on official social‑media handles, the bench likened the practice to a “digital arrest” and warned of a growing “social media trial”.
Key Developments
- The bench comprising CJI Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipul Pancholi heard the petition Hemendra Patel vs Union of India (W.P.(C) No. 311/2026).
- SG Tushar Mehta described certain online platforms as “blackmailers” and said the phenomenon amounts to a “digital arrest”.
- The Court reiterated its earlier direction to the Central Government to identify social‑media users and websites that posted irresponsible content during the NCERT textbook row.
- Petitioner’s counsel, Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, argued that posting images of accused persons being handcuffed or beaten creates bias and fuels a social media trial.
- The Court advised the petitioner to await the outcome of pending guidelines on police media briefings before proceeding further.
Important Facts
1. The petition seeks to regulate the police practice of posting photographs of accused individuals on official social‑media accounts, alleging humiliation and prejudice.
2. The bench highlighted that while mainstream media generally act responsibly, many virtual platforms lack accountability, leading to “insensitivity” such as by‑standers filming accident victims instead of helping.
3. The Supreme Court has previously directed State governments to frame guidelines for police media briefings, emphasizing the need for a balanced narrative.
Exam Relevance
• Polity (GS‑2): Understanding the role of the judiciary in regulating digital media, the powers of the CJI, and the function of the Solicitor General.
• Governance & Ethics (GS‑4)