MEDIA TRIAL: THE IMPACT OF SENSATIONALIZED COVERAGE ON FAIR TRIALS AND PUBLIC PERCEPTION

AUTHOR – MUBASHARA FATIMA, STUDENT OF UNITY PG AND LAW COLLEGE, LUCKNOW

BEST CITATION – MUBASHARA FATIMA, MEDIA TRIAL: THE IMPACT OF SENSATIONALIZED COVERAGE ON FAIR TRIALS AND PUBLIC PERCEPTION, ILE LEX SPECULUM (ILE LS), 1 (1) OF 2023, PG. 146-150, APIS – 3920 – 0036 | ISBN – 978-81-964391-3-2.

Abstract

Media trials, a contentious phenomenon shaping public opinion, have become prevalent in today’s digital age. This article explores the ethical, social, and legal implications of media trials on the right to a fair trial and freedom of the press. Media trials involve sensationalized and biased coverage of criminal cases and public controversies, often leading to prejudiced public perceptions and potential impacts on judicial proceedings. While freedom of the press is vital for transparency and accountability, it can clash with the principles of justice when media narratives prejudice the minds of the public and even influence jurors and judges. Striking a delicate balance between the media’s responsibility to inform the public and the need to protect the right to a fair trial remains a challenge. This abstract delves into the complexities of media trials and offers insights into addressing the ethical dilemmas they pose.

Keywords: – Media trial, Public opinion, Fair trial, Journalism, Freedom of press.