Overview
- A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant directed that Punjab Kesari’s printing presses operate uninterruptedly and restrained coercive steps affecting publication.
- The interim order lasts until the Punjab and Haryana High Court pronounces its judgment on the group’s petitions and for one additional week to allow appeals.
- Status quo was ordered for the group’s other businesses, including hotels, with the court distinguishing those operations from the press’s publication function.
- Punjab Kesari alleged power cuts, pollution board notices, closures and FIRs followed critical reporting, while the state said any action was lawful and limited.
- Punjab cited documented excise and environmental violations, including issues at the Park Plaza hotel in Jalandhar, as political figures reacted publicly to the ruling.