Media Cannot Label Accused as 'Mastermind', 'Scamster' or 'Kingpin' Before Trial: Patna High Court

The Patna High Court has strongly reiterated that an accused person is entitled to a fair and unbiased trial, and that this right cannot be compromised by media reporting that presumes guilt. The Court emphasized that while press freedom under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India is fundamental, it does not extend to publishing content that prejudges an accused before judicial determination of guilt. Observations on Media Reporting The…