The Supreme Court of India has imposed a complete ban on photography and videography within its High Security Zone, except where officially authorized. A circular issued by Secretary General Shekhar C. Munghate announced the new restrictions, aimed at preserving decorum, preventing misuse of content, and addressing security concerns.
According to the circular, media interactions will now be confined to a designated lawn in the Low Security Zone, where interviews and live broadcasts may take place. Within the High Security Zone, the use of mobile phones, cameras, tripods, selfie-sticks, or any other equipment for photo or video recording—including social media reels—has been strictly prohibited.
The order also outlines disciplinary measures for violations. Lawyers, litigants, interns, or law clerks who flout the rules could face proceedings before their Bar Associations or respective State Bar Councils. Media professionals may have their High Security Zone access suspended for one month.
Registry staff will be subject to strict departmental action, while other stakeholders and visitors could face similar consequences through their employers or authorities. Security personnel have been instructed to stop anyone attempting to film or take photographs inside the restricted zone.
The decision comes after a representation made by the Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association (SCAORA) on July 26. The Association had expressed concern over increasing instances of lawyers and others creating video reels and promotional content inside the court premises. It argued that such practices risked turning into indirect solicitation, which is barred under the Bar Council of India Rules.
SCAORA also highlighted that such videos undermine professional ethics, can mislead the public if courtroom proceedings are taken out of context, and raise serious security risks in a sensitive area of the nation’s highest court.
By enforcing this ban, the Supreme Court has sought to reinforce institutional dignity, uphold ethical standards in the legal profession, and maintain both security and decorum within its premises.
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