Published Paper Details:

Indian democracy is upheld by the three major pillars namely, legislature, executive and judiciary. Lord Macaulay, considered "media" to be the fourth pillar of the democracy. It is always critical to raise awareness and bring changes in the minds of the people. This can be done only by the means of free and independent media, thus ensuring the democracy. Though Part 3 of the Indian Constitution has not expressly provided for the "Freedom of Media", the Supreme Court with its interpretation has ensured the freedom under Article 19(1)(a) guaranteeing the "Freedom of speech and expression". The media has developed to the phase wherein people are able to access to the worldwide happenings in their hands by means of the digital world. But in the recent times, media is frequently criticised particularly in reporting the high-profile cases, as they try to sensationalise and distort the facts in order to gain the public attention. The media has equal responsibility as to the judiciary in upholding justice and both should never be at loggerheads. Under the guise of investigative journalism, the media goes beyond and interferes in the functions of judiciary. This is posing a huge obstacle to free and fair trial. This research article focuses on the freedom and also the degree of the restriction imposed on such freedom. Further focuses on the impact of media trial that takes the cover of freedom of speech and expression and poses undue interference in the administration of justice. The articles also addresses the impact of media trial on right to privacy, right to reputation and right to fair trial.