The Delhi High Court has observed that merely holding a mobile phone and microphone and calling oneself a “reporter” does not amount to journalism. While media freedom remains a cornerstone of democracy, it cannot shield irresponsible reporting, coercive conduct, or behaviour that stokes social tension, the court said while granting bail to two accused. It also flagged the need for a regulatory framework ensuring accountability and ethical standards in media.
Justice Girish Kathpalia made the observations while deciding bail pleas of Abid Ali and Furkan, booked in 2025 at Seemapuri police station after a mob allegedly attacked two “YouTube reporters” who claimed to be filming unauthorised construction. The court noted inconsistencies between the investigating officer’s submissions and video evidence regarding the accused’s identity and role, expressing sharp displeasure over the shoddy probe. It also noted the accused had spent nearly a year in custody without trial commencing.
The court observed that social media has enabled anyone with a phone to declare themselves a “reporter,” often pressuring citizens for instant reactions, spinning misleading narratives when met with silence, or spreading sensational, unverified information — behaviour that can fuel social discord. It said citizens have the right to decline answering questions, and silence should not be misrepresented as evasion.
Four co-accused had earlier secured bail; citing probe lapses and available evidence, Abid Ali and Furkan were granted bail on personal bonds of Rs 10,000 each. The court clarified its observations would not affect the trial’s outcome.
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