Kerala High Court Restricts Photography, Videography, Live Streaming On Premises; Prior Permission Required
The Kerala High Court has issued the 'General Guidelines for the Regulation of Photography, Videography and Live Streaming in the High Court' to ensure its security, dignity, decorum and smooth functioning.
The Guidelines are applicable to all persons entering the High Court premises, including advocates, litigants, interns, law clerks, officers, media persons and other visitors.
It is made clear that photography, videography and live-streaming is prohibited inside Court Halls, judges' chambers, Registry offices, record rooms, server rooms and security control rooms and other restricted areas.
There is a separate guideline applicable to videography/photography/livestreaming in allotted premises like Auditorium, Banquet Hall, Atrium, etc. for certain functions and event and the same would be in addition to these guidelines.
Ban on social media uploads
Uploading, publication, circulation and dissemination of photos/videos/livestreams recorded with High Court premises on social media platform, digital or electronic media without prior permission of Registrar General or the other authority concerned is prohibited.
Official photography and videography
Only the agencies authorised by the Registry can undertake videography/ photography/ livestreaming for official purposes. These footages shall not be disseminated without approval of the Registrar General or the authority designated by the Chief Justice.
Media coverage
Coverage of official functions or other events permitted by the High Court by print, electronic or digital media would be governed by the permission granted. The media personnels are to confine the activities strictly to the approved venue, date and time.
"Photography, videography, filming or live streaming of Court proceedings shall not be permitted except where specifically authorised by law or by orders of the Hon'ble Court."
Security and enforcement
In case of any unauthorised videography/photography/livestreaming, the Registry officials as well as the Security Wing personnel are empowered to prevent, stop or restrict the same.
Violations
Persons violating guidelines may be directed to stop the activity and the matter may be reported to the Registry for appropriate action.
In the event of violation by Advocate, intern or law clerk, the matter may be referred to the Kerala High Court Advocates' Association, the Bar Council of Kerala or any other competent authority for appropriate action.
When the violation is by the Registry employee or any officer functioning the High Court premises, the matter may be referred to the controlling officer or the competent authority for action.
In case of violations by media persons or visitors, permission for future entry or coverage may be withdraw or restricted by the competent authority in addition to any other action that may be taken.