Media trials, where news outlets extensively report on and influence public opinion regarding a legal case, can significantly undermine the right to a fair trial. This is because they can create a pre-judgment among the public, potentially influencing jurors, and exerting undue pressure on the judiciary. Such trials can also damage the reputation of individuals involved, including the accused, victims, and witnesses, even before a verdict is reached.

**Media trials have a significant impact on the right to a fair trial**, often posing a threat to the presumption of innocence and impartial judicial proceedings. While the media plays a vital role in informing the public and holding institutions accountable, excessive or prejudiced reporting on ongoing legal matters can influence public perception, pressure investigators, and even prejudice the minds of judges and jurors. This creates a parallel trial by media, where individuals are declared guilty or innocent outside the courtroom, thereby undermining the judicial process. The right to a fair trial is a fundamental right under **Article 21 of the Indian Constitution**, and it includes the right to be tried by an impartial and independent court. The Supreme Court of India in cases such as *Sahara India Real Estate Corp. v. SEBI* (2012) emphasized the need to balance freedom of the press under **Article 19(1)(a)** with the accused's right to a fair trial. Courts have also acknowledged the concept of "trial by media" as potentially contemptuous when it interferes with the administration of justice. Therefore, while media freedom is essential in a democracy, it must be exercised responsibly, especially during pending trials, to ensure that justice is neither derailed nor denied.

Media trials, where the media conducts its own investigation and forms public opinion on a case before a court verdict, can significantly undermine the right to a fair trial. This can manifest in several ways, including prejudicing potential jurors, influencing witness testimonies, and putting undue pressure on the judiciary.

Media trials can significantly impact the **right to a fair trial**, a fundamental right under **Article 21 of the Indian Constitution**. Sensationalized reporting and public judgment by the media can prejudice the investigation, influence witnesses, and create bias among judges and jurors, thereby undermining the **presumption of innocence**. While media has the right to report under **freedom of speech (Article 19)**, this must be balanced against the accused’s right to a fair and impartial trial. Courts have often cautioned against parallel trials by media that interfere with the administration of justice.