Section 33 of SMA : Section 33: Proceedings To Be In Camera And May Not Be Printed Or Published

Bare Act

33 Proceedings to be in camera and may not be printed or published

1. Every proceeding under this Act shall be conducted in camera and it shall not be lawful for any person to print or publish any matter in relation to any such proceeding except a judgment of the High Court or of the Supreme Court printed or published with the previous permission of the Court.
2. If any person prints or publishes any matter in contravention of the provisions contained in sub-section (1), he shall be punishable with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees.

Simplified Act

Privacy of Proceedings and Restrictions on Reporting

1. All legal actions taken under this law must be private (behind closed doors, known as in camera), and it's illegal for anyone to print or share information about these proceedings. The only exception is if the High Court or Supreme Court allows their judgment ...

Explanation using Example

Imagine a couple, John and Priya, who decide to get married under The Special Marriage Act, 1954. They file an application for their marriage at the local marriage registrar's office. During the process, they must attend a few proceedings related to their marriage registration.

As per Section 33 of the Special Marriage Act, 1954, these proceedings are conducted in private, meaning that they are not open to the public. This is to ensure the couple's privacy is respected. The media or any other third party is not allowed to report on what happens during these proceedings, including any statements made or evidence presented, unless they obtain permiss...