The Delhi Union of Journalists notes with deep concern the threats and harassment of journalists in Chhattisgarh, particularly the arrest of two journalists, Santosh Yadav and Somaru Nag under stringent non-bailable laws. DUJ congratulates the state’s journalists for holding a public meeting on Oct.10, 2015 and marching to the Chief Minster’s residence to demand release of the journalists.
Santosh Yadav, who reported news for multiple Hindi newspapers including Dainik Navbharat and Dainik Chhattisgarh, was arrested by the police on September 29. His name was subsequently added to a case where 18 villagers are in prison, charged with an encounter with the security forces. Somaru Nag, an Adivasi journalist who was a stringer-cum-news agent with the Rajasthan Patrika was arrested on July 16 and charged with keeping a look out for police while a group burnt a crusher plant employed in road construction.
Relatives, colleagues and human rights organizations have said that both journalists were beaten and tortured by the police after arrest. DUJ demands an end to victimization of journalists in conflict areas where they are caught between the conflicting demands of rebel groups and state forces. It demands that media organizations take responsibility for the protection of their stringers, reporters and other employees working in conflict areas. DUJ welcomes the unity displayed by journalists in Chhattisgarh on this issue.
Press Statement
