SC to explain its directive restricting news on sub-judice matter: Minister

Law minister Anisul Huq. Prothom Alo File Photo
Law minister Anisul Huq. Prothom Alo File Photo

Law minister Anisul Huq on Monday said the Supreme Court administration will give the explanation if there is any misunderstanding about its directive that no reports can be published on the under-trial cases, reports UNB.

He made the remarks while talking to reporters after a meeting with chief justice Syed Mahmud Hossain.

"The chief justice told me that there're discussions (about the directive) and there might be misunderstanding. They're considering it. I think, you'll receive explanation about it," the minister said.

On 16 May, the High Court Division urged the media to refrain from writing reports and running scrolls on any ongoing case.

A notice issued by it said some electronic and print media run reports and scrolls on cases under trial which is totally unexpected. "Under the circumstances, all concerned are requested to refrain from running reports and scrolls on any sub-judice matter," said the notice.

Later, Law Reporters Forum protested the notice urging the authorities concerned to withdraw it.

Besides, Editors Guild, Bangladesh, Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists and others demanded clarification over the notice from the court.

Replying to a query about what steps should be taken if any allegation is raised against any justice, Anisul said, "In such a case, allegation might be lodged with the president. It's under his consideration. It's not right that nothing can be sent to the president following the vacuum created over the 16th amendment to the constitution."