Tarigami raises concern over deteriorating state of press freedom in IIOJK
Srinagar: Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami has raised serious concern over the deteriorating state of press freedom in India, particularly in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and urged the authorities to safeguard the fourth pillar of democracy.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami, speaking during a discussion in the occupied Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, noted that India is witnessing a steady decline in press freedom, with the country’s ranking slipping to 166 in the Global Press Freedom Index. “In Jammu Kashmir, the condition is even worse. Any society where press freedom suffers gives rise to disruptive practices,” he remarked.
He said that four journalists continue to remain behind bars in the territory, questioning why even an elected government has failed to establish a vibrant and independent media policy. “The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) remains as confused as it was before the elections. All institutions are now under the control of the elected government — then why this confusion?” he asked.
He further raised concerns over the non-issuance of government advertisements to media outlets. “Earlier there were no advertisements, and now, even after elections, media organisations are not receiving them. Where are the files stuck?” he questioned, stressing that fair distribution of advertisements is essential to sustain independent journalism.
Calling the media the cornerstone of democracy, Tarigami said the press must be free to report government activities to ensure transparency and accountability. “We must protect press freedom, encourage the media, and review the media policy so that there is no discrimination in the allocation of government advertisements,” he asserted.
