New Delhi, Feb 2 (.) The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) on Monday strongly condemned the recent action of the Jammu & Kashmir Police for orally summoning journalists for questioning without citing any specific reasons.
The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) president, Vivek Gupta, said that such practices bypass the due legislative process and were wholly unacceptable.
He said that such acts amount to the intimidation of the press.
“Summoning journalists for routine, fact-based reporting undermines their constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression and creates a chilling effect on independent journalism,” Gupta said.
Gupta said that a free and fearless press is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy, and any arbitrary action by law enforcement authorities that instills fear among journalists weakens the country’s institutional framework.
“The INS urged the authorities to strictly adhere to the due process of law in all interactions with media personnel and ensure a conducive environment where journalists can discharge their professional duties without undue pressure,” INS said.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding press freedom, the Indian Newspaper Society said it stands in solidarity with the journalists concerned.
. ATK VAN