[Media Trial On Sushant Singh Case] Live-Updates of Hearing Before Bombay High Court

Chief Justice Dutta seeks clarifications from Union of India on certain factors.

'If there is excessive reporting, that can put an accused on guard, and he may resort to destroying evidence or absconding', CJ Dutta.

No one has done anything for months. There is a duty cast on government to take proactive action when there is a violation : Chinoy

The intent of the legislature is that media trial should be precluded : Chinoy

Under Section 5 of the Cable TC Act, the program code has to be followed. Under Section 6, contempt of court by media is prohibited. Under Section 20, Govt has power to disconnect channel for violation : Chinoy

'How can media channels destroy the reputation and right to life of a person by widely publishing that the person is guilty.

Inform, criticize, but don't judge- that is not your(media) job' : Chinoy

"Excessive prejudicial publicity leading to usurpation of functions of the Court interferes with administration of justice"

Chinoy quotes from the 'Sahara judgment'.

"Contempt is an offence sui generis. Purpose of Contempt Law is not only to punish. Its object is to preserve the sanctity of administration of justice and the integrity of the pending proceeding. Thus, the postponement order is not a punitive measure, but a preventive measure"

Chinoy quotes the paragraph from the Sahara judgment.

The words of Article 19(2) are "in relation to...contempt of court". So it is a broad restriction : Chinoy