Unauthorized Video Recording of Court Proceedings as Contempt and Rule Violations

sketch of the Bombay High Court
Case
IN RE UNAUTHORISED RECORDING OF THE COURT PROCEEDINGS, HIGH COURT ON ITS OWN MOTION v. DILIP WAGH (Bombay High Court, 05-10-2026)
Law
Contempt of Courts Act, Copyright Act, Information Technology Act.

Highlights of the Judgment:

  • Examination of the absolute prohibition against unauthorized video or audio recording of court proceedings under High Court rules.
  • Legal implications and potential liability of unauthorized recording under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.
  • Application of provisions from the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Indian Copyright Act, 1957, regarding digital media misuse.
  • Distinction between the right of public access to open court proceedings and the duty to respect courtroom etiquette.
  • Judicial precedents addressing unauthorized videography and the integrity of judicial administration.
  • Penalties involving device confiscation, data erasure protocols, and costs imposed for procedural violations.