Journalists barred from Supreme Court courtrooms

Journalists have been barred from entering the courtrooms of both the High Court and Appellate Divisions of the Supreme Court due to security concerns.

The restriction took effect on Monday (December 15) and will remain in force until 31 December, according to the Supreme Court administration.

During this period, only lawyers will be allowed access to courtrooms, while journalists, litigants, and other unauthorised individuals will be restricted.

A notification signed by the Registrar General said the measure was taken to ensure the security of judges, lawyers, court officials, and to maintain an orderly environment for judicial proceedings. It also bans any assemblies, processions, and the carrying of weapons, explosives, or narcotics within the Supreme Court premises during the period.

The notification noted that in recent times, litigants, case-related persons, and other unauthorised individuals have been entering courtrooms, disrupting court security, the orderly environment, and the smooth conduct of judicial proceedings. Such incidents, it said, pose risks to the safety of judges, lawyers, and court staff.