In the latest proceedings of the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Eidgah Mosque dispute in Mathura, the Allahabad High Court has issued a stern warning to the media about the potential consequences of incorrect or irresponsible reporting on court activities. The court underscored that any misrepresentation of its proceedings or orders could be seen as contempt of court.
Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra, who presided over the bench, articulated the court’s expectations from the media, emphasizing the need for accuracy and restraint in reporting to uphold the dignity and sanctity of the judicial process. “This court expects that the media will maintain due restraint while reporting the proceedings of this case and will uphold the dignity and sanctity of the court’s orders in this regard,” Justice Mishra stated in the order.
This directive came during a hearing on an application by the counsel in Suit No. 18, which forms part of the ongoing dispute. The application specifically sought to address concerns about inaccurate reporting in both electronic and print media.
The broader dispute centers around a 13.37-acre complex in Mathura, shared by the Katra Keshav Dev temple and the Shahi Idgah mosque. The conflict involves multiple lawsuits with prayers for the removal of the mosque and the transfer of the land to the temple, alongside requests for the demolition of the existing mosque structure.
In a significant move last May, the Allahabad High Court took the step to consolidate all related suits from the Mathura court into its jurisdiction, following a transfer application led by Bhagwan Shrikrishna Virajman and seven other plaintiffs.
Further legal developments saw a consolidation of 15 related suits in January of this year, aimed at streamlining proceedings and ensuring justice. The consolidation was directed by a single judge under the Civil Procedure Code’s Order IV-A.
This ongoing legal battle reached another milestone this August when the Allahabad High Court dismissed a petition by the Shahi Eidgah committee. The petition challenged the legal standing of the 18 suits filed by Hindu worshipers and the deity Shri Krishna Virajman.
