Supreme Court Directs YouTube Channel to Approach High Court in Dharmasthala Burial Dispute

Fast Summary

• The Supreme Court of India declined to hear a challenge against a Bengaluru civil courtS “ex-parte” gag order dated July 18, 2025.
• The order prohibits media outlets nationwide from publishing defamatory content about Harshendra Kumar D., brother of Dharmasthala pattadhikari D. Veerendra heggade, related to allegations of burials in the temple town.
• Chief Justice of India B.R.Gavai advised the petitioners (a YouTube channel named Third Eye) to approach the Karnataka High Court first.
• Previously published content related to these allegations has been directed by the civil court for removal.
• The petition alleges that this sweeping order undermines press freedom (Article 19(1)(a)) and natural justice (Article 21).
• The Karnataka government has set up a Special Examination team to probe alleged mass burials and associated crimes connected with Dharmasthala Temple.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The controversy around Dharmasthala raises critical questions regarding balancing an individual’s right to protect their reputation with broader concerns for press freedom and public accountability. While preventing unfounded defamation is crucial, such “sweeping gag orders,” as critics describe them, risk stifling democratic scrutiny on issues potentially involving serious criminal allegations. this could lead to concerns about transparency in high-profile cases implicating influential institutions or individuals.the judiciary’s decision not to intervene presently aligns with procedural propriety since appellate avenues like Karnataka High Court remain available. However, by directing blanket takedowns of prior publications across media platforms without clear differentiation between legitimate reporting and defamatory material, the civil court might inadvertently hinder journalistic pursuits vital for holding power structures accountable.

As investigations progress under a Special Investigation Team appointed by the state government, ensuring due process while upholding constitutional safeguards such as freedom of speech will be pivotal.

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