The Press Club of India (PCI) has strongly condemned the alleged manhandling of United News of India (UNI) journalists during the sealing of the agency’s premises in New Delhi. PCI termed the incident an unacceptable assault on press freedom, urging accountability and restraint from authorities.
In a statement, PCI expressed shock over reports that journalists, including women employees, were forcibly removed by Delhi Police and CRPF personnel and denied access to their personal belongings. The sealing followed a high court order related to a land dispute, but PCI stressed that due process and respect for journalists’ rights were ignored.
Press Freedom Under Strain
The PCI highlighted that the right to work is a constitutional guarantee and emphasized that authorities should have exercised restraint. The incident has sparked widespread concern among media bodies, with calls for immediate investigation and corrective measures to protect journalists from excessive force.
Industry Reactions
Several journalist associations, including the Editors Guild of India and the Indian Women’s Press Corps, joined PCI in condemning the action. They argued that undue haste in implementing the court order undermined democratic values and set a troubling precedent for media independence.
Key Highlights
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Press Club of India condemns police action at UNI premises
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Journalists allegedly manhandled during sealing operation
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Employees denied access to personal belongings
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Incident linked to land dispute and court order
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Media bodies demand accountability and probe into excessive force
Sources: The Economic Times, Times Now, ThePrint, Hindustan Times