The Kerala High Court has issued comprehensive guidelines regulating photography, videography and live streaming within its premises, with the objective of ensuring the security, dignity, privacy and orderly functioning of the institution. The guidelines were notified by the Registrar General on September 22, 2026.
The guidelines apply to all persons entering the High Court premises, including advocates, litigants, interns, law clerks, Registry officials, government officials, media personnel, contractors, visitors and other stakeholders.
Photography, videography and live streaming within the High Court premises are prohibited unless specifically permitted under the applicable guidelines or with prior permission of the Registrar General or such other authority authorised by the Chief Justice. Such activities are also prohibited inside Court Halls, Judges’ Chambers, Registry offices, sections, record rooms and other restricted or secured areas, except where specifically authorised for official purposes.
The guidelines further prohibit uploading, publishing, circulating or otherwise disseminating photographs, videos or live streams recorded within the High Court premises on social media or other digital platforms without prior permission.
For media coverage, coverage of official functions or other events permitted by the High Court may be undertaken by print, electronic or digital media subject to permission granted by the Registrar General and applicable guidelines. Media personnel must remain within the approved venue, date and time and comply with directions issued by the Registry and Security Wing. Photography, videography, filming or live streaming of Court proceedings is prohibited unless specifically authorised by law or by orders of the High Court.
The guidelines also empower Registry and Security Wing personnel to stop unauthorised photography, videography or live streaming. Violations may lead to appropriate action, including referral to the relevant authority and, in the case of media personnel or visitors, withdrawal or restriction of permission for future entry or coverage
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