Journalist Wrongfully Detained and Assaulted During Police Operation in Mendhar: A Call for Justice and Accountability
Mendhar 26 September 2024 In a deeply concerning and unprecedented incident, a journalist was wrongfully detained, assaulted, and had his equipment confiscated while covering a police operation in Mendhar. The event highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the press in carrying out their essential role in a democratic society.
The incident occurred during an operation led by the police to serve a notice to the District Development Council (DDC) Headquarter Mendhar, Er. Wajid Bashir Khan (also known as Ticko). A substantial contingent comprising 10 police personnel, led by the Station House Officer (SHO), and supported by 100 soldiers of the Special Operations Group (SOG), arrived at the residence of Er. Wajid Bashir Khan.
Altaf Hussain, a respected journalist known for his dedication to unbiased reporting, was present at the scene to document the proceedings. As part of his professional duty, Mr. Hussain recorded the police serving the notice, capturing the operation in its entirety, including footage of the substantial police force deployed.
However, instead of allowing the journalist to carry out his lawful duties, the SHO and SOG soldiers confronted Mr. Hussain, aggressively questioning his presence and authority to film the operation. Despite identifying himself as a member of the press, Mr. Hussain was met with hostility. In a shocking and unlawful act, his camera and mobile phone were forcibly confiscated.
The situation escalated further when the officers, disregarding the journalist’s rights, physically assaulted Mr. Hussain. Reports indicate that he was slapped, his clothing was torn, and he was subjected to verbal abuse. This blatant abuse of power and authority not only violated Mr. Hussain’s rights as a journalist but also his basic human rights.
This act of aggression against a member of the press is not only unprofessional and shameful but also a clear violation of the law. The detention of a journalist without any reasonable cause is an affront to the principles of free speech and press freedom that are enshrined in the Constitution of India. Such actions undermine the very fabric of democracy, where the press serves as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable to the people.
The journalist community in Mendhar and across Jammu & Kashmir strongly condemns this unlawful and reprehensible act. We stand in solidarity with Mr. Altaf Hussain and demand immediate and strict action against those responsible for this grave violation of law and abuse of power.
We call upon the higher authorities in the police department and the government to take the following actions:
Immediate Release and Apology The wrongful detention of Mr. Altaf Hussain must be immediately rescinded, and a public apology issued by the responsible officials.
Return of Confiscated Equipment All confiscated equipment, including the camera and mobile phone of Mr. Hussain, should be returned without delay.
Thorough Investigation An independent and impartial investigation must be conducted to determine the circumstances that led to this incident. Those found guilty of violating the law and misusing their position should face appropriate disciplinary and legal action.
Protection of Press FreedomThe government must reaffirm its commitment to protecting press freedom by ensuring that such incidents do not occur in the future. Clear guidelines should be established to prevent the unlawful detention and harassment of journalists.
Accountability of the Police The officers involved in this incident, including the SHO and SOG personnel, should be held accountable for their actions. A transparent and public inquiry into their conduct is necessary to restore public trust in law enforcement agencies.
This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in conflict zones and areas with heightened security presence. It underscores the urgent need for greater awareness, respect, and protection of journalists’ rights, especially in sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir.
The press serves as the fourth pillar of democracy, and any attempt to stifle its voice or hinder its work is an attack on democracy itself. We urge all stakeholders, including civil society, media organizations, and human rights groups, to raise their voices in support of Mr. Altaf Hussain and press for justice in this matter.
Justice delayed is justice denied. We demand immediate action to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that such a violation of rights and law is never repeated.
