Press freedom cannot shield irresponsible journalism, says Delhi HC

Freedom of the press cannot be used as “a shield for irresponsible journalism, intimidation or the dissemination of content that jeopardises public order”, the Delhi High Court said on Thursday.

Justice Girish Kathpalia made the observations while granting bail to two persons accused of assaulting two freelance YouTubers who make news content.

The alleged incident took place on July 4, 2025, when two persons claiming to be “from media” were recording videos in an unauthorised colony in Delhi’s Seemapuri area.

They were allegedly assaulted by a few residents, who also damaged their motorcycle and took away their belongings including their mobile phones.

A first information report was lodged the following day based on the allegations.

The prosecution argued that the attack amounted to an assault on press freedom.

However, the court noted that the complainants were not associated with any accredited media organisation and were working as freelancers for a YouTube channel.

The court said the complainants’ decision not to inform the police before beginning the recording exercise did not justify the alleged assault. However, it added that the broader question raised by the prosecution, that the attack amounted to an assault on press freedom, required consideration.

In its order, the court said the rapid growth of social media and digital platforms had resulted in a...

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