Supreme Court Extends Order Protecting Editors Guild Of India Members In FIRs Filed By Manipur Police

The Supreme Court of India has extended its order until 15 September, instructing the Manipur Police not to take any coercive actions against four members of the Editors Guild of India (EGI).

The EGI members are facing two FIRs for alleged offences, including promoting enmity between two communities.

According to a PTI report, a bench led by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said it will extend the operation of its order passed on 6 September, which was in response to the Editors Guild's plea, till Friday when it will hear the case.

During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state government, said the EGI members may be protected for some more time and the matter is sent to the Manipur High Court as done in other cases.

However, senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Shyam Divan, appearing for the EGI, opposed the SG's submission, arguing that the matter should be heard in the Supreme Court.

They highlighted that the FIRs were based on a fact-finding report.

The bench said, “We will take it up on Friday. It will take up the reply of the state government on that day."

According to PTI, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced on 4 September that a police case had been filed against the president and three members of the Editors Guild of India. They were accused of attempting to incite clashes in the state.

In addition to the initial complaint, a second FIR was filed against the four members of the Guild. This time, they were charged with defamation.

"Till next date of listing, no coercive step shall be taken against the (four) petitioners in connection with the FIRs...," the bench had ordered on 6 September, as per PTI reports.

Earlier, in a report published on 2 September, the Editors Guild strongly criticised the internet ban in the state, arguing that it hinders media coverage.

The Guild also criticised what it termed as one-sided reporting by some media outlets, and claimed there were indications that the state leadership had turned partisan during the conflict.

“They are anti-state, anti-national, and anti-establishment (people) who came to pour venom. Had I known it before, I would not have allowed them to enter," the Manipur Chief Minister had said.