SC stresses media freedom, criticises HC gag orders

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday emphasised the importance of maintaining "freedom of media," stating that courts should not issue "gag orders" that restrict this freedom. The remarks came during the hearing of a plea filed by the Wikimedia Foundation (Wikipedia) challenging a Delhi High Court order to take down a page titled "Asian News International versus Wikimedia Foundation." The Supreme Court issued a notice to ANI, which filed a defamation case against Wikipedia.

The Bench, led by Justice A.S. Oka, questioned the rationale behind the High Court's order, which had demanded the removal of a page detailing the proceedings of a defamation case filed by ANI against Wikipedia. The page contained details of the High Court hearing, including oral remarks by the judge, which led the Delhi High Court to order its removal, citing potential contempt of court. The Supreme Court, however, disagreed, drawing a distinction between contempt of court and gag orders. Justice Oka stressed that the ultimate issue was media freedom, stating, "Today it is Wikipedia, tomorrow it could be your turn," addressing ANI's counsel.