Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir’s largest media body consists of highly professional media persons and a galaxy of newspaper editors, Jammu Kashmir Press Corps (JKPC) has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address unethical practices by certain individuals posing as editors in Jammu and Kashmir, who are allegedly involved in blackmail and defamation, primarily targeting government officials.
Stating, that these actions undermine efforts toward press transparency and public accountability in the region. Despite reforms post-2019, reports indicate that these “black sheep” are re-emerging, using media platforms to pressure officials and advance personal interests.
In a statement to media, the JKPC stated “Before 2019, some media outlets in J&K monopolized journalistic influence, allegedly engaging in activities that fanned radicalization and used their power for personal gain. This damaged the credibility of the local media. However, under Modi’s leadership, reforms were introduced to ensure fairness and transparency, especially in the distribution of government advertisements, curbing the misuse of media power.”
In recent weeks, concerns have risen as individuals within the media, previously involved in unethical practices, have reportedly resumed blackmailing government officials, particularly those in the J&K Information Department.
Some of these individuals have faced criminal charges and are allegedly leveraging political connections to further their agendas. This has created a climate of fear and harm, tarnishing the reputation of journalism in the region.
JKPC, as the largest registered journalist association in J&K, has called for decisive action against these blackmailers to prevent further degradation of the media’s credibility.
They plan to send a formal complaint to the Prime Minister’s Office, the Home Minister’s Office, and the Press Council of India, demanding accountability for those involved. Only stringent measures, they argue, can ensure that journalism in J&K returns to its role as a force for truth and accountability rather than personal vendettas.
