SC Directs MHA to Develop Comprehensive Manual for Police on Media Briefings

The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to create a comprehensive manual outlining the procedures for media briefings conducted by police personnel regarding criminal cases.

Noting that biased reporting can lead to public suspicions about a person’s involvement in an offense, a bench led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud emphasized that media reports may also intrude upon the privacy of a victim.

The apex court further mandated that Directors General of Police (DGPs) from all states submit their recommendations to the Ministry of Home Affairs within a month for the formulation of guidelines governing media briefings conducted by the police in criminal cases.

The bench stated, “All DGPs should communicate their suggestions for guidelines to the Ministry of Home Affairs within one month…Suggestions from the NHRC (National Human Rights Commission) should also be considered.”

The Apex Court was addressing a petition regarding the procedures followed by the police when conducting media briefings while an investigation is ongoing.