The Calcutta High Court on Tuesday observed that sensationalism is anathema to responsible and responsive journalism, LiveLaw reported.
"Print and audio-visual media could be proactive but has to be sensitive," the court said. "This is what is meant in the truest sense by the oft mentioned term fourth estate."
The bench of Chief Justice Thottathil B Radhakrishnan and Justice Arijit Banerjee was listening to a plea seeking the strict enforcement of Section 126 in the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which prohibits displaying to the public any election matter by means of cinematography, television, or other similar apparatus for 48 hours before the hour fixed for conclusion of polls.
The petitioner was apprehensive that media and publishing houses might violate the provisions of Section 126.
In its submission, the counsel representing the Election Commission said that canvassing and rallies had been stopped since the last phase of the Bengal poll will be held on April 29. The Court directed the authorities to strictly enforce provision of the law. The matter will be heard further on May 3.
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