Tariq Bhat
JAMMU: Taking serious note of reports indicating that certain individuals masquerading as editors and allegedly running media organizations in Jammu and Kashmir are allegedly engaged in defamation and blackmail, specifically targeting government officials, Jammu Kashmir Press Corps (JKPC) on Thursday requested the Prime Minister to take swift and decisive action against these blackmailers.
“As the largest and only registered journalist association in Jammu and Kashmir JKPC is deeply troubled by these developments and request the Prime Minister to take swift and decisive action against these blackmailers”, the JKPC said in an appeal to the Prime Minister.
“It is imperative that such individuals are held accountable for their actions to prevent further degradation of the media’s credibility in J&K. Only through stringent measures can we ensure that the press remains a force for truth and accountability, rather than a tool for personal vendettas and corrupt practices. JKPC has also resolved to send the letters containing names of alleged blackmailer editors and fake media houses to the Prime Minister Office, Home Minister’s Office and to the Chairperson of Press Council of India”, the appeal mentions, adding this behavior undermines ongoing efforts to promote transparency and fairness within the region’s press.
“Journalists have long been regarded as the custodians of public interest, playing a crucial role in bridging the gap between the government and the people. Their responsibility to highlight the issues faced by ordinary citizens and to raise awareness about government schemes and steps aimed at public welfare is an essential pillar of democracy. However, in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the media’s role has been compromised by unethical practices that undermine the very values they are supposed to uphold.
Prior to 2019, a few number of media organizations in J&K, specifically a select few newspapers, had monopolized the journalistic fraternity and were involved in fanning radicalisation and terrorism. These entities were also engaged in blackmailing various government departments, including the J&K Information Department. This unethical behavior damaged the integrity of journalism in the region, as the media became a tool for personal gain rather than serving its intended role as a watchdog for society. Fortunately, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi post-2019, significant reforms were introduced to address this issue.
The media sector, particularly newspaper organizations, underwent a much-needed overhaul. For the past five years, a sense of fairness and transparency returned in the distribution of government advertisements, with the J&K Information Department ensuring that all newspapers received their rightful share based on merit, rather than through coercion or manipulation.
However, troubling reports have surfaced in recent weeks. It appears that some of the same unscrupulous elements within the media fraternity, known for blackmailing, are once again resorting to blackmail tactics. These individuals, often referred to as the “black sheep” within the newspaper community, are allegedly pressuring government officials in the J&K Information Department.
These individuals have not only tarnished the reputation of the entire journalistic community in Kashmir, but they have also weaponized their newspapers as tools for defamation and blackmail. Targeting officials from various government departments, particularly those within the J&K Information Department, these newspaper owners are accused of launching personal attacks, going so far as to malign the private lives of these officials.
What is particularly concerning is the involvement of these so-called journalists and editors who are facing criminal cases and previously booked under PSA, in using their influence with newly elected legislators to further their vested interests. This misuse of political connections undermines the transparency of governmental operations, causing significant harm to both the personal and professional lives of their victims. The resurgence of such unethical behavior has reportedly led to a climate of fear, as innocent individuals are being blackmailed under the guise of journalism. Most of these Litho newspapers are printing 50-100 copies to mislead the government. Journalism serves as a pillar of democracy, entrusted with delivering truth and upholding the public’s right to know.
However, the profession is increasingly tainted by those who exploit it for personal gain, blackmailing individuals and institutions under the guise of “reporting.” Such unethical practices not only degrade the integrity of journalism but also defame the hardworking, honest journalists dedicated to the craft.”
“It is time we, as a united body of ethical journalists, take a firm stand. Rather than allowing the corrupt few to tarnish our collective credibility, we must expose those who misuse journalism for blackmail or extortion, naming and shaming them and their organizations. By shedding light on their wrongdoings, we can protect the integrity of our profession and rebuild public trust”, the JKPC added.