NUJ(INDIA) hails Madras High Court’s remark of inaccuracies in reporting cannot justify prosecution of media

New Delhi May 08, 2020: The National Union of Journalists (India), NUJ(I), hails the Hon’ble High Court’s decision that on mere inaccuracies in reporting cannot justify initiation of prosecution court. Justice GR Swaminathan of Madras High Court pointed out that powerful politicians and corporate are using defamation cases against media as “tools of intimidation”, and the higher judiciary will not desert its duty when it comes to the protection of the fundamental rights.

The court had quashed defamation proceedings initiated against a leading newspaper and two journalists.

NUJ(I) President Ras Bihari and Secretary-General Prasana Mohanty, in a joint statement, said that the NUJ(I) welcomes the decision of the Madras High Court. This decision will be a milestone for the entire corporate and politicians who suppress the freedom of the press by putting pressure on the fourth pillar of democracy and creating an environment of fear.

OFFICE SECRETARY

National Union of Journalists (India)