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Kochi, Oct 10 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Friday urged the media to exercise caution and avoid sensational reports regarding the alleged loss of gold from the gilded copper coverings of the Dwarapalaka (gate guardian) idols at the Sabarimala temple.
A division bench of Justices Raja Vijayaraghavan V and KV Jayakumar said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to probe the case has recently started its investigation.
The court emphasized that fictitious reporting could jeopardize both the investigation and the rights of the accused.
“It is the public’s right to be informed through the media, and every accused is entitled to a fair, open and speedy trial. However, we have observed that people with only a superficial understanding of the issue are being interviewed, resulting in contradictory reports on print and electronic platforms.”
The court also highlighted the role of social media and cautioned that individuals with mobile phones or video cameras are spreading information without proper knowledge, potentially hampering the investigation and violating the rights of the accused.
“We urge the media to refrain from sensationalizing things,” it said.
These comments came in a suo motu order based on a report by the Sabarimala Special Commissioner.
The report raised concerns that the gold-plated copper casing was sent to Smart Creations for repair, without prior notice to the court or the commissioner.
The Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) had removed the coverings and handed them over to the firm under the sponsorship of Bhakta Unnikrishnan Potti.
The Court’s warning emphasizes the need for responsible reporting during investigations, to protect both the integrity of the investigation and the rights of the individuals involved.
The High Court’s direction is a reminder that premature or sensationalist coverage not only runs the risk of misleading the public, but can also obstruct the proper course of justice in high-profile religious property cases like Sabarimala.
–IANS
SG/DPB