Aastha Pareek
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a directive to media outlets, requesting them to avoid mentioning the names of judges while reporting on the Court proceedings, orders, and judgments, especially in ‘sensitive cases’. This request was communicated by the High Court’s Registrar General, Ms. Shalini Singh Nagpal, who emphasized that the measure is intended to enhance the security of the judges in India.
The communication stated that, ‘In the interest of security of Hon’ble Judges of this Court, the correspondents be asked not to publish the names of Hon’ble Judge(s) while reporting proceedings, judgments and orders of this Court.’
The High Court’s official website lists the current judges serving on the bench, including Chief Justice Sheel Nagu and other esteemed justices. The directive aims to balance the principles of open justice with the necessity to protect judges from potential threats arising from sensitive cases. While transparency in judicial proceedings is a cornerstone of the legal system, this measure reflects the Court’s proactive approach to safeguarding its officials.
Media organizations covering the High Court are expected to comply with this request, ensuring that reports focus on the proceedings and outcomes without disclosing the identities of the presiding judges. This approach seeks to maintain the integrity of judicial reporting while addressing security concerns for judicial officers of India.