Supreme Court Upholds Media Freedom in Dharmasthala Case

The Supreme Court refused to restrict media reporting on the Dharmasthala mass burial case while ordering a Karnataka trial court to reassess a plea against defamatory content targeting temple management. Media had been restrained from reporting due to alleged defamatory content, triggering legal challenges and investigations.

The Supreme Court has ruled against imposing restrictions on media coverage of the high-profile Dharmasthala mass burial case in Karnataka, reinforcing the media's right to report.

A bench comprising Justices Rajesh Bindal and Manmohan directed a trial court to reconsider the plea filed by the Dharmasthala Temple's secretary. The plea seeks the removal of alleged defamatory content about the family managing the temple.

While noting gag orders are rare, the apex court highlighted the importance of providing the trial court with all relevant materials. Anonymously sourced reports suggested defamation of the Dharmasthala temple on thousands of YouTube channels, compelling the temple body to pursue legal recourse.

(With inputs from agencies.)