The Supreme Court asked the Calcutta High Court to consider Abhishek Banerjee's plea against media trials. The case raises concerns over selective investigative leaks, reputation and fair investigation rights.Stock photo used for illustrationNewdelhi,Nov 3, 2026 16:02 ISTThe Supreme Court on Tuesday granted relief to Lok Sabha MP Abhishek Banerjee by asking the Calcutta High Court to consider his plea against media trials linked to investigations and cases against him, news agency Press Trust of India reported.A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana allowed Banerjee to seek a hearing when the high court reopens after its Durga Puja and Diwali break.Senior advocate Shoeb Alam, appearing for Banerjee, said the high court had taken up the matter only once, when the petitioner was told that the court did not have the roster to hear it.“Since then, I have mentioned the matter three times before the high court but the petition has not been taken up for hearing but there is continuing violation of my rights,” Alam submitted, according to PTI.

He argued that the Supreme Court had held in several judgments that the presumption of innocence could not be taken away by media trials.The bench noted that the high court would reopen on November 16 and said Banerjee was free to mention the matter for consideration of interim relief. It asked the high court to consider his plea.

Banerjee has sought an order restraining investigating agencies from sharing his personal information with media organisations. He alleged that selective leaks by the investigating officer were damaging his image and could influence the ongoing investigations against him.The MP, who is under investigation in multiple cases, alleged that probe agencies had leaked details of searches, questioning and other legal steps to a section of the media, leading to several reports in newspapers.He contended that such deliberate leaks by police officials violated his rights to dignity, reputation and a fair investigation under Article 21 of the Constitution.

He also said the leaks could damage his public image and influence the investigations against him.Banerjee has also sought directions restraining media organisations from reporting or publishing news about him on matters that form part of the ongoing investigations. The Supreme Court has now asked the high court to consider his plea after it reopens.- Ends