Viral court clips spark judicial concern over misinformation

Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. India's judiciary is grappling with the unintended consequences of live-streamed court cases as short, often out-of-context, clips go viral on social media, fuelling misinformation. And that has reignited the debate whether the proceedings should be shared live online at all.

Supreme Court judge Justice B.R. Gavai, slated to become the next Chief Justice of India, has voiced serious reservations, highlighting the potential to undermine the integrity of judicial processes. “These clips, when taken out of context, can lead to misinformation, misinterpretation of judicial discussions, and inaccurate reporting," he said at an event.

Former Bombay High Court judge Gautam Patel told Mint that live-streaming of court proceedings “trivializes a judge's work". He flagged a lack of control over viewers on platforms like YouTube, contrasting it with virtual or hybrid hearings where attendees can be traced through their IP addresses. “We do serious work that affects individuals, corporates...," Justice Patel said.

“The clips that are circulated are part of long hearings; there is something taken out of context for shock value. It has become a real menace." Once uploaded, there is no way to control the manner in which it is replicated, so it does more harm than good, he said. “Unless there is some law governing live streaming or changes in technology for live streaming, it should altogether be stopped." Also read | From Likes to Live: Digital influencers take baby steps into the real world The Supreme Court started live telecasts of court proceedings as part of the right to access justice under Article 21 of the Constitution, aiming to enhance transparency and public confidence.