Madras High Court Bars Videos Linked to POCSO Case Against GEM Granites Founder

The Madras High Court on Friday restrained media organisations, intermediaries and digital platforms from publishing or circulating videos linked to the ongoing investigation against GEM Granites founder R Veeramani in connection with a case under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO Act) [Tulir Charitable Trust Vs Commissioner]Justice V Lakshminarayanan passed the interim order after observing that publication of video material connected with the investigation could reveal the identities of the victims and discourage other victims from coming forward and recording their statements before the police.The Court noted that the investigation was at an advanced and crucial stage and that the police were still trying to ascertain whether there were more victims than those already identified.“At this juncture, if there were to be news debates or photographs being uploaded, there is a distinct possibility that other victims might not come forward to record their statement to the police, fearing the consequences it can have on their lives,” the Court said.The Court therefore restrained entities, intermediaries and digital platforms from publishing, broadcasting, uploading, transmitting, sharing, circulating, reproducing or otherwise disseminating videos touching upon the case.At the same time, Justice Lakshminarayanan declined to impose an absolute restraint on discussion. The Court clarified that the media and others could discuss issues arising out of child ab