High Court Hears Udaipur Files Case: Fair Trial Rights Under Scrutiny

In a crucial session at the Delhi High Court, justices addressed concerns involving the contentious film 'Udaipur Files' and its impact on the legal rights of petitioner Mohd Javed. The court examined whether the film's release would compromise Javed's right to a fair trial, given his current status as an accused in the Kanhaiya Lal murder case.

Representing Javed, senior advocate Menaka Guruswamy stressed the importance of a fair trial, arguing the film, based on the charge sheet, could be prejudicial. Guruswamy invoked Article 19, emphasizing the fundamental right to a fair trial while highlighting how the movie's content might endanger Javed and his family's life.

The judges underscored the limits of the Central government's authority in amending film certificates. Questions were raised regarding jurisdiction under the Cinematography Act, with ASG Chetan Sharma defending the government's decisions. Deliberations will proceed, focusing on whether the film can proceed without infringing on justice and free speech rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)