New Delhi : Broadcast Editors’ Association (BEA) has categorically told the constitution bench of the Supreme Court that it cannot frame guidelines for media reporting of sub judice cases. Senior lawyer Ram Jethmalani, who was continuing his arguments for BEA, contended before the five-judge constitution bench that the Supreme Court has no powers to pass any order which is not in consonance with the fundamental rights. A five-judge constitution bench of the Supreme Court is considering whether there should be guidelines for reporting of sub judice matters by media. Mr Jethmalani reminded the Supreme Court that a three-judge bench of the Supreme Court itself had accepted that the best way for media to function is through self regulation. Mr Jethmalani advised the constitution bench to ensure enforcement of the existing laws, instead of issuing new guidelines. He has completed his arguments today.
