The Evolution And Impact Of Media Trials In The Indian Justice System: An Analysis
- IJLLR Journal
- May 26
- 1 min read
Dr. Vivek Dubey, Assistant Professor, Department of Law, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar
Vinayak Dutta Choubey, Research Scholar, Department of Law, Dr. Harisingh Gour Central University, Sagar
ABSTRACT
The media is one of the essential pillars of democracy in India, as it enables the people to voice their opinions under the freedom of speech and expression provided by Article 19(1)(a). However, with the privatization of media organizations and the stiff competition in acquiring television ratings points (TRP), the emergence of media trials has become inevitable. The paper provides a detailed analysis of the evolution of media laws in India, from the traditional social practices and colonial censorship to post- independent laws. It focuses on the negative impacts of conducting simultaneous investigations of media on the justice system. These include the undermining of the principle of presumed innocence for the accused, causing severe secondary victimization to the victims, and potentially influencing the subconscious of the judiciary. Through a review of landmark judicial decisions such as the K.M. Nanavati case and the postponement doctrine in Sahara India, this paper underscores the urgent necessity for uniform regulatory mechanisms to ensure that journalism fortifies, rather than subverts, the rule of law.
Keywords: Media trial, Fair Trial, Democracy, Judiciary, Rule of Law, Speech and expressions.
