Notice Issued to Editor of Deepika Daily and Petitioner for Affidavit Submission in Public Interest Litigation
In a significant development, the Kerala High Court has issued notices to the Editor of Deepika Daily and the petitioner, Shaji J. Kodankandath, following allegations of misrepresentation of judicial orders. The case, registered as WP(PIL) No. 37 of 2026, came to the court's attention after Mr. K. Rajan, M.L.A., addressed a letter to the Registrar General, expressing concerns over statements made by the petitioner during a press conference that were reportedly published under a misleading heading in Deepika Daily.
The presiding judges, Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Syam Kumar V.M., have taken serious note of the situation, particularly the report in Deepika Daily that claimed the High Court directed an inquiry into the purchase of digital survey equipment. The court clarified that no such order was passed and expressed concern over the potential implications of such misinformation.
The High Court has mandated that both the Editor of Deepika Daily and the petitioner submit affidavits clarifying their positions regarding the alleged publication and statements. The court emphasized the importance of accurate reporting and the potential harm that can arise from misleading headlines, especially in matters of public interest.
The court has scheduled the matter for further hearing on March 26, 2026, and instructed the Registry to issue notices to the concerned parties. The Editor of Deepika Daily is required to appear with an affidavit on the scheduled date, while the petitioner must also file an affidavit, ensuring prior service to the counsel representing the respondents.
The case underscores the judiciary's vigilance in maintaining the integrity of judicial communications and the necessity for the media to uphold high standards of accuracy in reporting. The Kerala High Court's proactive approach reflects its commitment to safeguarding public trust in the judicial system.
Bottom Line:
Writ petitioner alleged to have made statements at a press conference leading to misrepresentation of judicial orders - Notice issued to petitioner and Editor of Deepika Daily for affidavit submission regarding the alleged publication and statement.
Statutory provision(s): None mentioned explicitly in the judgment.
Shaji J. Kodankandath v. State of Kerala, (Kerala)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2869753
