How deadly is it to cover the ‘dead or alive’?

“Journalist crushed to death in Ratnagiri”
– (Frontline: February 8, 2023)

“Shot at, UP journalist says BJP leader’s brother behind attack — ‘didn’t succumb to pressure’”
– (The Print: February 28, 2023)

“Bihar journalist killed, accused knocked on his door, shot him in chest”
– (India Today: August 19, 2023)

‘Crushed’, ‘Shot’, ‘Killed’! Strongly emphasise on the verbs associated with ‘journalist’ in the above three headlines. If this does not disturb you, nothing will. On the occasion of ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’ observed today, it is really important for us to discuss about the safety of journalists. Particularly, thinking to create a safer place for those who cover politics, crime and the news beats that are life threatening.

Theme: “Violence against journalists, integrity of elections, and the role of public leadership”

Worldwide federation of journalists called on governments everywhere to denounce, look into, and apprehend anyone who murder, threaten, or intimidate journalists. Governments should also pass laws that are unambiguous and binding in order to safeguard the security of journalists. In remembrance of the murder of two French journalists in Mali on this day in 2013, the UN General Assembly declared November 2 to be the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists through a resolution.

Importance of this day

There are several reasons why the ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’ is important. Today is a day to:

• Increase public awareness of the problem of crimes against journalists going unpunished: The absence of legal responsibility for offences committed is known as impunity. Crimes against journalists that go unpunished foster an atmosphere of fear and intimidation and convey the idea that there are no repercussions for attacking journalists. This may result in self-censorship and stifle the right to free speech.
• Speak up in favour of journalists’ protection and safety: By educating the public and bringing the powerful to account, journalists perform a crucial role in society. But they frequently run serious hazards at work, such as being beaten up, harassed, or imprisoned. On the ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’, we urge governments and all relevant parties to take further action to safeguard journalists and foster an atmosphere that permits them to operate without fear or hindrance.
• Express your support for journalists everywhere: Many nations present serious obstacles for journalists, such as censorship, violence, and incarceration. The ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’ is a celebration of the bravery and resiliency of journalists who operate in challenging circumstances.

The Indian Scenario

The safety and security of all citizens, including journalists, is of utmost significance to the Central Government of India. Journalists are covered by the current laws protecting people. The Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution designates ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ as state subjects.

Additionally, the Press Council of India responds appropriately to complaints from impacted journalists. On October 20, 2017, the States and Unions received an advice on the safety of journalists. This advisory is available on the website of the Ministry of Home Affairs. All assaults and acts of violence against journalists and media professionals are denounced in this historic resolution.