SC Bars Assam Police from Coercive Action Against Journalists
The Supreme Court on August 22, 2025, restrained Assam Police from taking any coercive action against senior journalist Siddharth Varadarajan and other reporters of the news portal The Wire. The interim order came after a petition was filed challenging an FIR registered under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) relating to a published article.
Bench’s Observations
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi made it clear that while arrests or coercive measures cannot be taken, the journalists must cooperate with the investigation. The court stressed that liberty of the press is important, but cooperation with due process remains necessary. The next hearing has been scheduled for September 15, when the petitioners must submit a status report.
Earlier Protection Extended
This is not the first instance of the court stepping in. Earlier this month, on August 12, the Supreme Court had granted protection to Varadarajan in connection with a separate FIR linked to reporting on “Operation Sindoor.” The latest ruling effectively extends that shield to cover the more recent case as well.
Press Freedom Concerns
The case has drawn sharp responses from media rights advocates, who argue that repeated FIRs and police summons risk creating a chilling effect on independent journalism. Observers noted that attempts to bypass earlier court orders reflect growing tensions between state authorities and the press. The Supreme Court’s intervention has been welcomed as an essential safeguard against arbitrary action.
Next Steps
With the matter adjourned until mid-September, both the petitioners and the Assam Police are expected to present detailed submissions. Until then, protection from coercive action remains in force, ensuring the journalists can continue their work without immediate legal pressure.
