The Delhi High Court declined to impose a general ban on media reporting regarding the Dwarka road accident case involving a minor accused. Upholding the importance of press freedom, the court emphasized that freedom of expression and the press are crucial in a democratic society. The court was addressing a plea from the father of the juvenile accused in the accident that resulted in the death of a 23-year-old motorcyclist.
The petitioner raised concerns about media personnel allegedly continuously pursuing the minor and his family, leading to harassment through extensive coverage. In response to the father’s petition, the Delhi High Court directed the Centre and the Press Council of India to ensure that no information revealing the minor’s identity or character is disclosed or published.
The incident in question occurred on February 3 in Delhi’s Dwarka area, where a 23-year-old motorcyclist lost his life after a Scorpio SUV, reportedly driven by a 17-year-old minor, collided head-on with his motorcycle near Lal Bahadur Shastri College.
Allegations from the victim’s mother suggest that the minor was creating social media content while driving recklessly just before the accident. The collision also resulted in the SUV hitting a parked cab, causing serious injuries to its driver. The minor, lacking a valid driving license, was apprehended and presented before the Juvenile Justice Board, which then placed him in an observation home.
Granted interim bail on February 10 to allow him to sit for his Class 10 Board exams, the minor faces charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including rash driving and causing death by negligence. The minor’s father, initially detained during the investigation, was subsequently released, with indications that he might be named in the chargesheet under relevant provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Initially considered an adult by investigators, the minor’s age was later confirmed as a minor based on documents provided by the family’s lawyer. Police investigations have verified that the minor was indeed driving the Scorpio without a valid license. Further inquiries into the incident are ongoing.
