Ernakulam: Ahead of sentencing the convicts in the actress assault case, District and Sessions Court judge Honey M Varghese on Friday warned the media and lawyers to refrain from publishing news reports that distort court proceedings.

Following the verdict that acquitted actor Dileep but convicted six others, including first accused Pulsar Suni on December 8, the Court had decided to hear the six convicted persons on the question of sentence on Friday, December 12.

Before taking up the matter today, the judge issued a warning, adding that maligning the court would lead to contempt of court proceedings.

Justice Varghese clarified that while she is not bothered by articles on her specifically, distorted reporting of court proceedings will be dealt with seriously.

The judge also warned those present against recording or transmitting court proceedings in the case.

Judge Varghese further stated that the case was one to be tried in strict compliance with the guidelines of the Supreme Court in Nipun Saxena v. Union of India which bars disclosing the identity of the survivors or victims of sexual offences. However, much of the reporting in the case has failed to comply with the guidelines, the judge said.

(With Bar and Bench inputs)