Following a recent Delhi High Court order granting police protection to Amarkant Singh Chauhan, Bhind bureau chief of Swaraj Express, senior journalist Rakesh Kumar has praised the Press Club of India for its strong and proactive stance in defending journalists facing intimidation and violence in Madhya Pradesh.
Rakesh Kumar, a veteran with over 30 years of experience in Indian journalism, expressed serious concern over the growing pattern of harassment faced by journalists who expose uncomfortable truths. “The Press Club has played a crucial role in drawing national attention to these alarming incidents. Their swift support to Chauhan and others shows that the journalistic community will not remain silent in the face of injustice,” he said.
“What’s happening in Madhya Pradesh is deeply disturbing,” Kumar added. “Summoning journalists, beating them, forcing them to undress, and coercing false statements—this isn’t law enforcement, it’s a blatant abuse of power. In such a hostile environment, the Press Club’s support provides not just moral strength but also a powerful reminder that unity in the press is our greatest defense.”
The Delhi High Court’s intervention came after Amarkant Singh Chauhan reported threats to his life due to his coverage of illegal sand mining and alleged police complicity, which forced him to leave Madhya Pradesh. Other journalists—such as Dharmendra Ojha (News 24), Shashikant Goyal (Bejod Ratna), and Pritam Singh (NTV Bharat)—have also faced threats, physical assault, and were even forced to retract their statements under duress.
Rakesh Kumar called for solidarity and vigilance within the journalistic fraternity: “We must demand accountability and push for institutional safeguards like a comprehensive Journalist Protection Law. This isn’t just about one journalist or one state—this is about defending the very foundation of our democracy.”
He urged media bodies, civil society, and constitutional institutions to closely monitor the developments in Madhya Pradesh and hold those misusing their authority accountable.
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