The Delhi Union of Journalists (DUJ) condemns the increasing curbs and restrictions being imposed on journalists in various parts of the country. In the latest instance, the West Bengal government has banned the movement of journalists within the state secretariat ‘Nabana’. Journalists holding Press Accreditation cards issued by the state government have been barred from moving beyond the designated Press Corner in the building. Violators, have been threatened with dire consequences, including arrest and slapping of cases charging them of violating the official secrets Act.
The 14 storied Nabanna houses important departments such as home, finance, minority affairs, public works department, personnel and administration, office of the chief minister, apart from a host of others. Restraining journalists to a corner will restrict their information collection to only what is doled out by the authorities.
In the last three and half years of TMC rule in West Bengal, several journalists have had to face the ire of the ruling party and were beaten up by its goons. Earlier this year journalists were beaten up inside the secretariat premises. The government has failed to take action against the culprits despite being provided with clinching evidence. The DUJ denounces these attacks on the freedom of the press.
Press Statement
