The Gauhati Press Club has condemned the alleged assault and harassment of journalists by police while they were covering an anti-CEC protest in New Delhi, and has called for a peaceful protest rally on October 17 to defend press freedom and journalists’ rights.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Press Club expressed concern over visuals showing journalists being targeted despite displaying their press identity cards. It also denounced allegations that digital media journalists were specifically targeted and harassed while performing their professional duties.
The Press Club said the incident raised serious concerns over media freedom and the safety of journalists, stressing the need to protect media personnel from obstruction and harassment while reporting on public events.
It called for measures to ensure journalists’ safety, safeguard press freedom and uphold the professional rights of media personnel.
As part of its protest, the Gauhati Press Club has scheduled a peaceful rally at its premises on Saturday, October 17, at 10 am.
The organisation has urged journalists and media professionals to participate in the rally and unite in support of journalists’ rights, safety and freedom of the press.
The statement was issued by Gauhati Press Club president Khagen Kalita and general secretary Amarendra Deka.
