Targeting of Journalists on Basis of Religion Unacceptable

The meeting noted that the government failed to protect journalists covering incidents of mob violence in the capital. The attack on journalists was an attack on the freedom of the press, and the IJU appealed to all to respect the neutrality of journalists and their rights.

The IJU has demanded adequate compensation to the journalists injured and for equipment damaged by the rioters. At the same time, the IJU hailed the journalists for their courage and determination to report facts under the most trying circumstances.

The meeting also reiterated its demand for a Safety Act for journalists without further delay to allow them to carry out their duties without fear or favor and ensure an independent media, critical to any democratic society.

Further, it was agreed that the IJU and its state affiliates must ensure that a media rights monitoring committee is constituted and that cases are religiously followed up. Besides, the demand for basic insurance coverage for journalists covering violence and reporting in conflict areas was reiterated both with the media houses and the government.

The meeting expressed concern over the government's move to do away with the Working Journalists Act and the Wage Board by bringing in the Labour Codes. The IJU, through its Secretary General, shared its concern with the Parliamentary Standing Committee of Labour, which met in December by making a written as well as oral submission, which was acknowledged.