J&K’S new media policy draws criticism from Kashmir journos

SRINAGAR:JAMMU and Kashmir’s new media policy has evoked sharp criticism from journalists, politicians and the civil society.

Many have called it an attempt to kill the independence of journalists and media outlets operating the region.

Earlier this month, the J&K administration had approved the new Media Policy-2020 saying it was meant for effective communication and public outreach. The administration also stated that the policy attempts to “thwart misinformation, fake news and tries to develop a mechanism that will raise alarm against any attempt to use the media to vitiate public peace, sovereignty and integrity of the country”.

The policy allows the directorate of information and public relations (DIPR) to “examine the content of the media for any fake news, plagiarism and unethical and anti-national activities” and any individual or group indulging in such things “shall be de-empanelled besides being proceeded against under the law, the administration said.

Veteran journalist and former BBC correspondent Altaf Hussain said it is an attempt to browbeat the media so that they are not able to report facts.

While most newspaper owners refused to comment or write on the new media policy, some termed it as a coercive measure to silence the media voices.

Kashmir Press Club general secretary Ishfaq Tantray said the club members had an online meeting and a need was felt that all media organisations should come together for a joint mechanism to deal with the issue.

Former chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah was also critical of the policy. “The only version the authorities want heard is their own. The truth will be the biggest casualty of this Orwellian order,” Abdullah said in a tweet.

However the BJP has welcomed the policy. “Journalists also should be made accountable,” said BJP state spokesperson Altaf Thakur.