Supreme Court Protects Journalist from Coercive Action and Considers Women Reporters Panel

The Supreme Court directed that no coercive action be taken in an SC/ST Act case against a woman journalist who had accused a Delhi police officer of sexual harassment during protest coverage.

Background and dispute

Journalists’ organisations separately alleged detention, assault and interference with reporting at the demonstrations. Counsel sought confidential handling of complainants’ identities and an independent mechanism to examine allegations.

Legal issue and court’s approach

The Bench indicated that a proposed inquiry committee should be predominantly or exclusively composed of women and might include a former woman judge, police officer and social worker. Those suggestions were not a final appointment order.

Order and practical consequence

The journalist receives interim protection while the Court considers the allegations and possible reporting safeguards.