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NHRC Issues Notices to Kerala, Manipur and Tripura Over Attacks on Journalists, Sets Two-Week Deadline

The rights body invoked suo motu powers to demand accountability, stressing press freedom.

Overview

  • In a move announced October 22, the NHRC sought detailed reports from the three state DGPs on alleged assaults against journalists in separate incidents.
  • Manipur’s case involves a reporter shot twice with an air gun while covering a flower festival at Laii Village in Senapati district on August 30.
  • In Kerala, a journalist was allegedly beaten near Mangattukavala in Thodupuzha the same day while returning from a wedding function.
  • In Tripura, a reporter was assaulted with sticks and sharp weapons during a political clothes distribution programme in Hezamara on September 21, and his motorcycle was stolen.
  • The NHRC noted all three victims were hospitalised and FIRs were registered locally, and it underscored that journalists must be able to work without fear.