MEDIA TRIALS AND THE RIGHT TO FAIR TRIAL IN INDIA: A CONSTITUTIONAL ANALYSIS

With the increasing role of media in criminal investigation and trial procedures, there has been the emergence of the practice of media trials. The concern arises here since media trials can impinge on the administration of justice. Whereas the media plays an important role in ensuring transparency and awareness among the general public, the excessive use of media by the judiciary and lawyers in criminal investigations and trials may violate a person's basic right to a fair trial. This article analyzes the constitutional conflict between two rights provided for in Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Indian Constitution, freedom of speech and expression and right to life respectively. Article 21 also includes the right to a fair trial. By conducting a legal analysis of cases decided by courts in relation to current practices in media, this paper aims to explore the issue of media trials and their effects on the administration of justice.