In a case that sparked fierce debates on journalistic responsibility and free speech, the Supreme Court on Friday granted bail to veteran journalist Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, arrested earlier this week over a controversial remark made not by him, but by a panelist on his show.
Rao, who anchors the “KSR Live Show” on Sakshi TV, found himself in police custody after a guest on his programme described Amaravati as the “capital of prostitutes” and claimed “only AIDS patients live there.” The incendiary statement triggered outrage, especially from groups alleging the comment was deeply offensive to women. Rao’s failure to interrupt or object—compounded by footage showing him laughing—became the focal point of the complaint.
The Supreme Court, however, took a more measured view.
A Bench comprising Justices PK Mishra and Manmohan made it clear that holding a host responsible for an on-air remark they did not make is a stretch too far. “The petitioner himself has not made the statement,” the Court noted. “His journalistic participation in a live TV show needs protection. So does his freedom of speech.”
While the State, represented by Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, argued that Rao’s laughter amounted to complicity—“He was laughing,” Rohatgi insisted—the Court wasn’t convinced. “If someone makes an outrageous statement, we laugh about it. He’s not saying it,” the Bench replied.
Adding a final human note to its ruling, the Court acknowledged Rao’s age—around 70—and described him as a senior journalist before ordering his release on bail.
The ruling reinforces a fine but essential line: in live broadcasting, being present doesn’t always mean being liable.