The Kashmir Valley has witnessed a disturbing trend of marginalization of journalists over the years which only continues to grow or take a cemented position.
As per local news agency, Kashmir News Trust, since the abrogation of Article 370, several professional journalists have been systematically targeted and sidelined, while amateur journalists with questionable credentials continue to be promoted.
Journalists who speak truth to power have faced severe consequences, including arrests, ousting from government quarters, denial of accreditation passes, and exclusion from official events.
A senior journalist lamented, “For 20 years, I have been in this field, yet I have never been allowed to attend official functions, while unknown kids get invitations.”
The Department of Information and Public Relations has adopted a pick-and-choose policy, targeting senior journalists without reason or rhyme. Even journalists working with foreign media houses have been deprived of accreditation passes.
This reporter was surprised to find his name missing from the accreditation list. “When I sought reasons, an official feigned ignorance but added that every name in the list has come from the top.” Most of the accredited journalists lost their accreditation due to unknown reasons better known to authorities.
This trend has led to a culture of self-censorship, where journalists hesitate to write against the ruling BJP, fearing reprisal. However, journalists assert that criticizing the BJP doesn’t make them anti-national. “BJP, like INC, is just a political party. Journalists have every right to report on them,” said a journalist.
The situation has been exacerbated by the emergence of new, unvetted journalists carrying microphone logos and running Facebook pages with questionable credibility. “These individuals have been groomed and encouraged by the establishment, while seasoned journalists are ignored.”
This troubling trend is further fueled by Kashmiri religious leaders and politicians, who, despite their vocal opposition to press suppression, actively support a new breed of journalists lacking integrity and credibility. “Regrettably, our most prominent politicians and religious leaders chase after these embedded journalists, whose questionable credentials and character undermine the very essence of journalism,” lamented one veteran journalist. “These individuals have played a significant role in silencing counter-narratives within our society, which the same politicians and religious leaders decry, ironically!”
As Omar Abdullah takes oath as the new Chief Minister of Jammu Kashmir, the exclusion of senior journalists from official events continues. This blatant favoritism undermines the principles of a free press and democratic values, Kashmir News Trust reported.