The Supreme Court on Monday (10 August) dismissed TV Today Network Limited’s challenge to a Delhi High Court order awarding ₹5 lakh compensation over a broadcast that allegedly disclosed details capable of identifying a child sexual abuse survivor.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V. Mohana rejected the broadcaster’s plea. Justice V. Mohana has been serving as a Supreme Court judge since June 2, 2026.
Background of the Case
The matter arose from a 2005 incident involving a minor girl who had lodged an FIR against her father alleging sexual assault.
According to the case material, the child’s mother had declined to allow Aaj Tak’s crew to interview her or her daughter. Despite this, the channel broadcast a report containing the father’s name, designation and workplace, along with visuals of the family’s residential area and the mother’s voice.
The Delhi High Court had earlier upheld compensation of ₹5 lakh in proceedings concerning the broadcast.
Supreme Court’s Observations
Before the Supreme Court, TV Today questioned the finding that a private media organisation could be subjected to writ proceedings under Article 226 of the Constitution.
The Bench was not persuaded to reopen that issue.
“Your prayer for non-maintainability of the writ petition is out of the question,” the Court remarked.
Justice Bagchi also questioned the broadcaster’s position that the press should not be treated as performing a public function when liability for an allegedly irresponsible publication was being considered.
When counsel argued that the High Court’s ruling could “open the floodgates” to similar proceedings, Justice Bagchi responded, “We encourage it.”
Decision
The Supreme Court dismissed TV Today Network Limited’s plea, leaving the ₹5 lakh compensation awarded in the privacy dispute undisturbed.
Case Details:
Case Title: TV Today Network Limited v. ABC & Ors.
Case Number: SLP(C) No. 27299/2026
Judges: CJI Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohana
Decision Date: August 10, 2026
 chief. Eknath Shinde – Shiv Sena leader-300x169.webp)
