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Number of discussions have been held, will come up with something within 6 weeks, Court was told today
The Supreme Court was informed today that Centre would come up with guidelines governing the search and seizure of personal digital devices by police and central agencies within 6 weeks.
ASG SV Raju, appearing for the government, told a bench of Justices SK Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia that deliberation with forensic laboratory experts were going on and it would take some time.
"Notice was issued in 2021. You have been holding meetings, but when will we have an outcome?", Justice Kaul asked in response.
A request was further made by Senior Advocate Nitya Ramakrishnan seeking interim directions which was declined by the bench.
When the bench asked if the government was willing to follow any existing manuals in the meantime, ASG Raju referred to the CBI manual.
Court accordingly went on to list the matter on February 6, 2023.
Last week, Supreme Court had asked the Central government to frame said guidelines without any further delay.
The instant PIL hast been filed by Foundation for Media Professionals. Last month, court had given the Central government a month's time to suggest guidelines to govern such seizures.
Senior Advocate Ramakrishnan has earlier told the bench that guidelines were needed as copies of necessary data could be taken instead of complete seizure.
"300 journalists were raided in NewsClick case. This is an absolute an assault. Some interim guidelines should be there", the senior counsel added.
Case Title: Foundation for Media Professionals vs. Union of India and Ors
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