Madras High Court Bars Media from Publishing CSAM Case Videos

The Madras High Court has issued an order restraining media, social media intermediaries, and digital platforms from publishing or circulating any video content linked to a child sexual abuse material (CSAM) case being investigated by the Central Crime Branch in Chennai. The court also directed those who had already uploaded such material to remove it by September 26.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has forwarded the order to major news channels, including India Today, Republic TV, and Sathiyam TV, as well as all newspapers and digital news publishers. The court noted that at least 28 YouTube channels were allegedly involved in spreading or discussing content related to the case.

Justice V. Lakshminarayanan stated that "every right has a corresponding duty" owed not only to children but also to the accused. While acknowledging the press's right to report, the court indicated that it would probe whether this right is unrestricted or includes the right to a "media trial," drawing parallels to how press coverage of past events informed adversaries.

The case stems from a petition filed by Tulir Charitable Trust. The initial closure report filed by the police was rejected by the POCSO court, which ordered further investigation. The petitioner alleged that certain TV channels had discussed case details and uploaded CSAM content, violating provisions of the POCSO Act and the IT Act.

This judicial action reflects a broader effort by Indian authorities and courts to implement stricter regulations and enhance platform accountability concerning online CSAM content.