NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court stayed the telecast ban imposed on Malayalam news channel Media One. The court asked the channel to continue as before. The court verdict is a big relief for the management of the channel. The verdict was passed by a bench led by Justice D Y Chandrachud.

The court passed the crucial order after examining the two set of files submitted by the centre in a sealed cover. While considering the case, the centre had informed the court that more time is needed to submit a detailed affidavit. However, the court asked in return why the affidavit could not be filed now.

Though the Additional Solicitor General, who appeared for the Centre, said there was more information in the sealed envelopes, Justice Chandrachud disagreed. The court observed that the status of a media institution was protected.

The court also asked the Centre to file a counter affidavit within two weeks and to clarify whether the documents already submitted can be handed over to the complainants. A clarity on the matter should be obtained before March 26.

Media One welcomed the verdict. Media One editor Pramod Raman said the channel will start broadcasting soon.