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The Delhi High Court has lifted its order restraining publication of reports on the alleged harassment complaint by a woman research analyst to Delhi police against The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) director-general Rajendra K Pachauri.
Justice Jayant Nath modified his previous order where he restrained publication of articles against Pachauri after applications was made by Bennett Coleman and Co. Ltd. to allow publication of reports on action taken by police in the case, the outcome of the proceedings before the sexual harassment committee, and court proceedings.
In the order passed on Wednesday and made available Thursday, the court said, "In my opinion, keeping in view the liberty of the press under Article 19(1)(a) of the constitution of India for the time being, in the interest of justice, interim order passed on February 17, 2015 is modified to the above extent. It is ordered accordingly."
The court posted the matter for April 8 for further order.
Pachauri had moved the high court seeking a restraining order on publication of reports relating to the alleged complaint. On February 17, the court restrained publication of news on the issue, but the next day (February 18), modified the order and lifted the ban.
Meanwhile, Pachauri moved anticipatory bail plea before the high court. Justice S P Garg, however asked him to move the proper forum - the sessions court.
