Kerala High Court: Media’s Freedom of Speech – Definitive Opinion of Guilt/Innocence Pending Trial

The Kerala High Court ruled that the media must exercise caution while expressing opinions on the guilt or innocence of individuals pending trial. The court emphasized that such definitive opinions could prejudice the legal process and affect the fairness of trials. While reaffirming the importance of media freedom and the right to free speech, the court underscored the need for responsible journalism that respects the presumption of innocence. The ruling aims to balance media freedom with the principles of justice, ensuring that trial processes remain unbiased and fair.