The Allahabad High Court recently reacted to the media over its reporting on the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah Masjid dispute, stressing restraint and responsible journalism. Observations by the court come at a time when the public interest in the case has been increasing with this long-standing legal battle concerning ownership and rights over the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple and the Shahi Idgah Masjid adjacent to it in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh.Case has its roots in a compromise deed in 1968 between the Krishna Janmabhoomi Trust and the Shahi Idgah Management Committee. The masjid premises were marked as part of the settlement, and subsequently, claims have arisen that the mosque was built on the birthplace of Lord Krishna in the Mughal era. In fact, multiple cases have been filed in courts over the years by Hindu plaintiffs to recover the land on the grounds of historical injustice. In the most recent developments, Allahabad High Court was considering a petition filed challenging the maintainability of suits pending in lower courts. The petitioners represented the Shahi Idgah Management Committee, which sought relief from what it described as politically motivated and communally sensitive litigation. On the other hand, the Hindu claimants contended that the issue deals with matters of faith and heritage and hence warrants judicial intervention. Justice Arvind Kumar Mishra expressed his concerns of sensationalized reporting and a tendency to escalate communal tension. The court reiterated the fact that the matter remains sub judice and took pains to caution media channels from portraying the case in such a manner that prejudice may be caused to the public . The court also pointed towards the media responsibility regarding journalistic ethics which essentially ensures fair, balanced as well as non-inflammatory coverage of events. The High Court was keen to point out that it is the role of the media to inform rather than inflame and that such reckless reporting can undermine the judicial process and public harmony. Now that the case is before the High Court, all parties concerned await a decision that accords with historical evidence, legal precedents, and societal peace. In this context, the court's reminder has been a very strong guidance for the media in making them realize their important role in creating an informed and unbiased discourse on matters of national importance.