Read Time: 05 minutes

Synopsis

In a significant direction, the Allahabad High Court has urged the media to 'observe due restraint' while reporting proceedings in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah case, citing concerns about potential misrepresentation that could undermine the sanctity of judicial processes. Court emphasized that inaccurate or irresponsible reporting may attract contempt proceedings, signaling its firm stance on preserving the dignity of its orders and the judicial process.

The matter, which revolves around multiple suits concerning the disputed Krishna Janmabhoomi and Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura, has drawn considerable public and media attention. During the proceedings on November 28, the court considered several petitions and applications, with counsel from both sides presenting arguments and making procedural requests.

In one of the cases (OSUT 18 of 2023), Advocate Hare Ram Tripathi raised concerns over misreporting in electronic and print media, underscoring its potential to mislead the public and distort the court's proceedings. Echoing similar apprehensions, other parties urged the court to issue strict guidelines to ensure responsible media coverage. Court, while refraining from issuing a blanket prohibition, underscored that any reporting that distorts the factual essence of the case could amount to contempt of court.

The bench of Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra remarked that media coverage of the issue must not compromise the integrity of judicial proceedings.

Court directed its Registrar (Compliance) to circulate its observations and warnings to all concerned to avoid any inadvertent violations.

The court's observations come as the case awaits further deliberation, with the next hearing scheduled for December 4, 2024.

Various suits consolidated under OSUT 1 of 2023 pertain to the disputed ownership and related claims concerning the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple and Shahi Idgah mosque. The legal battle has reached the Supreme Court, where several petitions emanating from lower court orders in the matter are also being considered.

The High Court also addressed procedural issues during the hearing, granting an adjournment in the lead case at the request of the defendants' counsel, who cited ongoing proceedings before the Supreme Court. On the other hand, advocates for the plaintiffs opposed the adjournment, emphasizing the pendency of amendment applications in related suits.

In the consolidated suits, the court is deliberating on issues ranging from procedural lapses to substantive claims over property rights. On the procedural front, it directed parties to ensure timely exchange of documents, indicating its intent to streamline the ongoing litigation.

Case Title: Bhagwan Shrikrishna Virajman At Katra Keshav Dev Khewat No. 255 And 7 Others vs. U.P. Sunni Central Waqf Board And 3 Others