The Delhi High Court has called on the legislature to consider enacting a legal framework to regulate the media while safeguarding the constitutional guarantee of press freedom. The observations came during the hearing of a bail plea in an assault case involving two freelance YouTube reporters, where the Court expressed concern over the growing number of “self-styled” journalists operating without professional accountability.
As per media reports, Justice Girish Kathpalia observed that technological advancements have made it possible for virtually anyone with a mobile phone and microphone to claim to be a journalist, often without formal training, ethical grounding or accountability. The Court remarked that this changing media landscape has blurred the distinction between professional journalism and unregulated content creation.
Emphasising that freedom of the press remains a cornerstone of democracy, the Court cautioned that the right cannot be used as a shield for irresponsible journalism, intimidation or the dissemination of content that jeopardises public order. It said any future regulatory framework should preserve press freedom while ensuring adherence to ethical standards, professional accountability, the rule of law and the rights of citizens.
The Court also flagged concerns around aggressive reporting practices, selective narration of facts and the publication of unverified allegations, observing that such conduct can deepen social divisions, inflame public sentiment and potentially trigger communal disharmony. It stressed that the media’s influence over public opinion carries a corresponding responsibility to exercise fairness, restraint and ethical judgment.
The observations were made while granting bail to two accused arrested in connection with the alleged assault of freelance YouTube reporters in Delhi’s Seemapuri in July 2025. The Court also criticised the investigating agency for inconsistencies in its submissions and failure to adequately assist the Court during the proceedings.
