Wikimedia Foundation Inc vs Ani Media Pvt. Ltd. & Ors

Bench: 2 — Abhay S. Oka, Ujjal Bhuyan

In Brief

Wikimedia Foundation challenged a High Court order requiring it to delete content critical of ongoing legal proceedings. The Supreme Court held that courts must remain open to public debate and criticism, even on pending matters. While contempt can be punished if publications scandalize the court, courts cannot order takedowns merely for discussing proceedings. Robust debate serves democracy; judges cannot respond publicly but must accept criticism within reason. The order to delete pages was disproportionate and void.

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Constitutional Law - Freedom of Speech and Expression Contempt of Court Civil Procedure Right to Information Intermediate Platform Liability Open Justice Sub-judice Principle Digital Media and Courts Freedom of the Press Judicial Review Preventive Injunctions

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