The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday decided not to proceed with a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought a nationwide ban on pornographic websites and mobile applications. The bench, headed by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Poonacha, observed that similar matters are already being examined by the Supreme Court and therefore, it would be inappropriate for the High Court to interfere at this point.
The petition had been filed by The Legal Attorneys and Barristers Law Firm, asking the court to direct the Union government to block access to websites and apps that allegedly promote obscene or pornographic content, including platforms such as OnlyFans and Pornhub. The plea also called for strict penalties against those violating online content rules.
During the hearing, Deputy Solicitor General H. Shanthi Bhushan informed the court that the issue of regulating obscene material online is currently pending before the Supreme Court. After noting this, the High Court stated,
"We are of the opinion that it would not be appropriate to consider the present PIL at this stage. Hence, no order is required."
With those brief remarks, the Bench disposed of the petition, effectively closing the case without any further directions or observations.
Case Title: The Legal Attorneys and Barristers Law Firm v. Union of India & Others
Case No: W.P. No. 3155 of 2024