Need to translate rulings in easy terms: CJ
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 14 2024:
In an effort to enhance transparency and understanding of legal proceedings, the High Court of Manipur, in collaboration with Manipur State Legal Services Authority (MSLSA), organised an interactive session on "Challenges in Legal Reporting and Role of Media" between Hindustan Times legal editor Utkarsh Anand and legal correspondents of the Imphal-based media houses, on Friday.
Held at the judges' lounge of the high court, the event aimed to foster a better relationship between the judiciary and themedia.
At the event, Chief Justice Siddarth Mridul highlighted the critical role of journalists in translating complex court rulings into language understandable by the general population, emphasised the importance of fair criticism based solely on judgments, and welcomed constructive feedback aimed at improving judicial transparency.
Addressing the gathering, Utkarsh Anand underscored the media's responsibility in disseminating accurate information to the public along with stressing the need for legal correspondents to get acquainted with inner workings of the court system, develop reHable sources, and cross-check information meticulously before publishing their reports.
Anand cautioned against inserting personal opinions or criticisms of judges and parties involved, while urging reporters to adhere strictly to factual reporting.
The session also covered guidelines for responsible reporting, including the necessity to verify information directly with the court and to report only on completed cases to avoid misleading the public.
Special attention was given to the sensitivity of juvenile cases and the importance of respecting privacy when sharing information on social media platforms.
Highlighting the court's efforts towards transparency, High Court registrar general Ojesh Mutum informed journalists about the court's initiatives to translate court rulings into Manipuri language using both Meetei Mayek and Bengali scripts, to make legal information more accessible to the local population.
The event also attended by Justices Ahanthem Bimol, Aribam Guneshwar Sharma and Golmei Gaiphulshilu Kabui, and MSLSA Member Secretary Alek Muivah sought to bridge gaps between the judiciary and media, promoting responsible journalism that upholds the principles of accuracy, fairness, and public interest.