A Delhi court on Wednesday expressed serious concern over the alleged disclosure of the CBI’s chargesheet in the NEET-UG paper leak case to the media, particularly after reports published the identities of witnesses, including minors.
Special Judge Ajay Gupta of the Rouse Avenue fast-track court termed the reported publication of contents from the chargesheet, before they had been argued before the court, a matter of serious concern. The court observed that such disclosures could potentially affect the fairness of criminal proceedings and emphasised that all stakeholders, including the media, have a responsibility to ensure that court proceedings are not prejudiced by reporting.
The issue arose after the CBI prosecutor informed the court that media reports had disclosed the names of witnesses, including minors. Defence lawyers also objected to the reports, submitting that such publicity could adversely affect the accused’s right to a fair trial. They further alleged that copies of the chargesheet had reached the media even before the document was formally presented before the court.
Taking note of the concerns, the court said it would examine the reports and determine whether any further action was warranted.
The CBI has filed a chargesheet running to nearly 20,000 pages against 13 accused in connection with the alleged NEET-UG question paper leak. According to the investigating agency, three subject experts allegedly obtained examination questions from the National Testing Agency (NTA) office in Delhi and leaked them through various means. The agency has further alleged that the accused took advantage of the lack of frisking procedures while exiting the confidential section.
The court also took cognisance of the chargesheet and directed that arguments on the framing of charges would commence from August 13.
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