"Social media companies don't listen to judicial institutions." CJI N.V. Ramana

The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed its anguish over the lack of accountability of media outlets and social media companies towards judicial institutions.

SC concerned about fake news on social media and digital platforms

CJI Ramana was particularly concerned about the growing menace of communal violence owing to fake news circulated on social media and digital portals.

In the ongoing case before the Supreme Court, Jamiat Ulama -I-Hind and Peace Party has sought directions against the malicious spread of unverified and fake news attributed to the the rise in covid cases with the Tablighi Jamaat congregation that took place at Nizamuddin in Delhi in March 2020. 

Misinformation akin to virtual prosecution amid instances of communal tension

It is pertinent to note that multiple media outlets and social media platforms have been replete with unsubstantiated news items. For instance, back in April 2020, certain online forums had reported that Tablighi Jamaat attendees under quarantine defecated in the open after being denied non-veg food. There were multiple unverified news reports and WhatsApp messages about growing communal tensions with the local communities at places where Jamaat attendees were kept in quarantine.

In one such case before the Aurangabad Bench Of Bombay High Court over FIRs against Jamaat attendees, the court had labeled the misinformation in the media akin to virtual prosecution.

Supreme Court to hear transfer petition challenging constitutionality of IT Rules

During today's hearing, the Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta pointed out the Government’s intention of regulating misinformation and fake news through the new IT Rules. However, the said IT Rules have received a lot of flak since they were notified.

In fact, different High Courts are hearing petitions challenging the constitutionality of the new IT Rules. Calling it an all-India issue, the Solicitor General Of India requested the CJI to list the transfer petition challenging the constitutionality of IT Rules before the apex court.

Chief Justice N.V.  Ramana agreed to this suggestion and the matter will be heard after 6 weeks.