Decision not affected by media trial: SC

Media reports on Jessica Lall trial did create certain confusion in the mind of public but did not prejudice the court,the Supreme Court said.

Responding to the allegations of media trial repeatedly raised by Manus counsel Ram Jethmalani,the Bench led by Justice P Sathasivam said: Certain articles and news items appearing in the media immediately after the date of occurrence (of the incident) did cause certain confusion in the mind of public as to the description and number of assailants/suspects,they did not tantamount to a prejudice which should weigh with the court in taking any different view.

It is unfortunate that trial by media did,though to a very limited extent,affect the accused, it said. The court recommended that every effort should be made by the print and electronic media to ensure that the distinction between trial by media and informative media should always be maintained.

Despite the significance of the print and electronic media in the present day,it is not only desirable but expected of the persons at the helm of affairs in the field to ensure that trial by media does not hamper fair investigation and prejudice the right of defence of the accused. It will amount to travesty of justice if this causes impediments to fair investigation and trial, the court observed. It cautioned all modes of media to extend their cooperation to ensure fair investigation,defence of accused and non-interference in the administration of justice in matters sub judice.

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