[Same-sex marriage case in Delhi High Court] Central government opposes live-streaming; says proceedings could evoke sharp reactions

The Central government has opposed the proposal to live-stream the proceedings before the Delhi High Court in the petitions seeking recognition of same-sex marriages. .In an affidavit submitted before the High Court, the Ministry of Law and Justice told the Court that the proceedings in the case are likely to be extremely charged and will involve passionate arguments from both sides could evoke sharp and unwanted reactions.In the recent past, there have been instances when even in matters which were not fully live-streamed, serious unrest was caused and wild and unnecessary allegations levelled against sitting judges of the Supreme Court of India, the affidavit said.“It is well known that Judges cannot really defend themselves in public fora and their views/ opinions are expressed in the judicial pronouncements,” the affidavit said..The government added that there is a possibility that such live streaming may be edited or morphed and the entire sanctity of the proceedings could be lost.“To maintain the solemnity, dignity and seriousness of court proceedings, particularly in matters such as the present one wherein sharp ideological schism may be present it may be advisable that the proceedings not be telecast live,” the government submitted..The Delhi High Court is seized of a batch of matters seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the Hindu Marriage Act and the Special Marriage Act.Centre's stated position in the matter is that the law recognises marriages only between a biological man and a biological woman.It had earlier opposed the live-streaming of proceedings arguing that the case is not of national importance and the demand for live-streaming of court proceedings in the matter was only to gain sympathy.The Court had, however, expressed its displeasure over the affidavit and asked the government to file a better response. .It has now argued that there is a possibility that such live streaming may be edited or morphed.“To maintain the solemnity, dignity and seriousness of court proceedings, particularly in matters such as the present one wherein sharp ideological schism may be present it may be advisable that the proceedings not be telecast live,” the Central government contended..The petitions are now listed for hearing before a division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Subramonium Prasad on Wednesday. .[Same-sex marriage] Centre to file better reply to plea for live-streaming of Delhi High Court proceedings.Follow Bar and Bench channel on WhatsAppDownload the Bar and Bench Mobile app for instant access to the latest legal news.