Supreme Court’s Directions to Investigating Agencies

• 15 Dec 2023

On 14^th December, 2023, the Supreme Court instructed all investigating agencies to adhere to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) manual when collecting digital evidence.

• The court further urged the Centre to establish guidelines for the seizure of digital devices within six weeks.

Key Points

• Guidelines for Digital Device Seizure: The bench formulate guidelines for the seizure of digital devices, emphasizing the need to safeguard the privacy and freedom of individuals, especially media professionals.
• Deadline for Guideline Formulation: The court set a strict deadline of six weeks for the Centre to present comprehensive guidelines on the matter.
• PILs and Concerns: The court's decision stems from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Foundation for Media Professionals and another petition filed by five academicians.
• These petitions seek clear guidelines to ensure the respectful treatment of academic work and research stored on personal electronic devices seized during raids.