EC Issues Clarification, Says It Stands By 'Free Media' As It Helps In Reinforcing Transparency

The EC further stated that it recognized the media's role in enhancing effectiveness of election management and reinforcing transparency.

Image Source (PTI)

New Delhi: In a press release, the Election Commission of India stated that they have taken note of the positive role played by the media and stands with its 'faith in free media'.

The press release comes after the Supreme Court on Monday said the media cannot be stopped from reporting after the Election Commission moved to the Supreme Court in protest against the Madras High Court's statement stating the 'EC Officials as murders'. 

The Election Commission in its statement said, the it was "unanimous the before the SC that there should not be any prayer for restriction on media reporting."

EC as a whole&each one of its members recognise
the positive role played by media in the conduct of all elections in the past & present & in strengthening electoral democracy in the country. EC unanimous that there shouldn't be restriction on media reporting: Election Commission pic.twitter.com/Gsgq1fbfJP

— ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2021

The EC further stated that it recognized the media's role in enhancing effectiveness of election management and reinforcing transparency.

The SC heard EC's plea on Monday and said that the media cannot be stopped from reporting any court hearing, the Supreme Court said.

“Media is a powerful watchdog in democracy, it cannot be stopped from reporting discussions in higher courts. Seeking relief such as media should not report on observations is too far-fetched,” the Supreme Court said in its observations, news agency PTI reported.

The top court also said that High Courts are vital pillars of democracy and that it will not demoralise the courts.

The Madras High Court had slammed the Election Commission of India for allowing political rallies amid a deadly second wave of Covid-19,  holding it "singularly" responsible for the spread of the viral disease.