New Delhi: The Editors’ Guild of India has sounded a strong note of concern over the increasing trend of using criminal laws to target journalists critical of the government. In a letter addressed to Home Minister Amit Shah, the guild has highlighted the growing misuse of criminal code provisions and offensive speech laws to stifle press freedom.
The guild’s letter points out that the passage of several laws since 2019 has significantly expanded the scope of criminal regulations and granted law enforcement agencies broader powers. Amendments to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, Foreign Contributions (Regulation) Act, and the introduction of the Criminal Procedure Identification Act are cited as examples of legislation that has been used to harass and intimidate journalists.
ALSO READ: Times Now Marathi Reporter Harshal Bhadane Patil Dies in Tragic Accident
To address this alarming situation, the Editors’ Guild has proposed a more stringent review process before filing FIRs against media professionals. The guild suggests that any complaint against a journalist should be examined by a senior police officer and subsequently brought to the notice of the Press Council of India.
This move, according to the guild, is essential to prevent the misuse of criminal laws and create a conducive environment for independent journalism. The organization has previously expressed similar concerns to opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and is now urging the opposition to raise these issues in Parliament.
The Editors’ Guild’s appeal for a more robust review process underscores the critical importance of protecting press freedom in a democracy. The misuse of criminal laws against journalists not only undermines the fundamental right to freedom of expression but also creates a chilling effect on investigative journalism.
