The Karnataka High Court has prohibited the use and uploading of videos from its court proceedings, according to a report by Bar and Bench on Tuesday. The court issued directives to social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), to delete videos that were recorded and uploaded from the official live-streaming footage of the court.
This decision came in response to concerns raised by the Advocates’ Association of Bengaluru (AAB). On Friday, the AAB had submitted a request to the Chief Justice of the Karnataka High Court, asking for a temporary halt to the live streaming of court proceedings. The association cited potential misuse of the footage as a reason for its appeal.
Protection of Judicial Proceedings
Live streaming of court proceedings has been a significant step towards ensuring transparency in the judicial system, allowing the public to witness court functions. However, concerns regarding the improper use and dissemination of these recordings have led to the court’s recent ruling.
The court has expressed concerns over unauthorised usage and the potential for misrepresentation of judicial proceedings when videos are uploaded on social media platforms. In response to these worries, the court has now taken action to curb the misuse of its live-streaming content.
Compliance from Social Media Platforms
Following the court’s directive, social media platforms are expected to remove all videos that have been taken from the official live streaming of the High Court. The platforms are also required to ensure that such videos are not uploaded again without authorisation.
While live streaming of court proceedings has been a move towards greater transparency, this decision highlights the need for safeguards to prevent the misuse of judicial content in public domains.