Video Journalists Saturday alleged that they were beaten up by an army soldier during Jashn-e-Baramulla event organised in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district by Chinar Corps of Indian Army to promote talent of the youth of Kashmir.
After the incident, both Reporters and video journalists boycotted the event and as a mark of protest left the venue.
The incident occurred when some video Journalists tried to interact with Bollywood actress Amisha Patel. The “Kaho Na Pyar Hai” actress was the chief guest of the event.
“We tried to interact with the actress to know her experience about event and youth of Kashmir when an Army officer sitting beside the actress asked us not to come closer to the dice. Suddenly an armed soldier emerged and without any provocation, thrashed 3 video Journalists including me,” said a victim Journalist to KNT.
He said the soldier also broke the camera of Mudasir Ahmed of News 18 channel. Besides Mudasir, Suhail Khan of Kashmir Dispatch and Ashiq Mir of Kashmir Crown were assaulted.
One of the victim Journalists said they were formally invited by Army and never expected this embarrassment. “I will never attend any army function in future,” he said.
When contacted, any army official feigned ignorance about the incident.
Army in a statement yesterday had said 2 days Jashn-e-Baramulla event also marks the starting of Chillai Kalan period to soothe the nerves & promote talent.
“On the first day of the festival many events were organised promoting talent, cultural spirit and productive youth engagement. A total of 20 participants gave their breath-taking performance in the Kashmir’s Got Talent & mesmerised the locals with their singing, cultural dance, folk music & mimicry. The K9 warriors from the Army Dog Unit displayed their obedience & guarding prowess which left the audiences in an awe. On the second day of the event i.e. on 25 Dec 2020, many more such events are planned to enthral the participants & the audience,” the statement read.
It further added that the enthusiastic & overwhelming response in the chills of winter by the local population, including the youth dispersed melody & harmony in Baramulla & once again highlighted the rapport between the Jawan & Awaam.