INS Condemns J&K Police's Oral Summons to Journalists as Intimidation Tactics
The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) has issued a strong condemnation of the recent actions by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, specifically targeting the practice of orally summoning journalists for questioning without providing specific reasons. In a formal statement, INS President Vivek Gupta labeled these methods as unacceptable, asserting that they circumvent due legislative processes and amount to direct intimidation of the press.
Undermining Constitutional Rights and Independent Journalism
The statement emphasized that summoning journalists for routine, fact-based reporting severely undermines their constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression. It highlighted how such actions create a chilling effect on independent journalism, discouraging reporters from pursuing stories that hold power to account. A free and fearless press is described as the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy, and any arbitrary measures by law enforcement that instill fear among journalists are seen as weakening the entire institutional framework of democratic governance.
Case in Point: The Indian Express Reporter's Ordeal
This condemnation follows a specific incident last month where J&K Police called The Indian Express Assistant Editor Bashaarat Masood to the Cyber Police Station in Srinagar. He was asked to appear over four days between January 15 and January 19 and was pressured to sign a bond committing not to engage in activities that could disturb peace. Masood, who has been with The Indian Express in Srinagar for two decades, refused to sign the bond, standing firm against what he perceived as an overreach.
INS's Call for Adherence to Due Process and Solidarity
In response, the INS has urged authorities to strictly follow the due process of law in all interactions with media personnel. The society advocates for a conducive environment where journalists can perform their professional duties without undue pressure or fear. The INS stands in solidarity with the affected journalists and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding press freedom, stressing that such practices not only harm individual reporters but erode public trust in democratic institutions.
