J&K Police Summoning Journalists Flags Concerns Over Questioning For Routine Reporting, Social Interactions

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has reportedly issued several summonses to journalists of prominent national newspapers such as Hindustan Times, Indian Express among others, asking them to report to the state police.

The development has forced national dailies to publish special features or editorials against using police powers to summon journalists over their legitimate reporting, calling them part of a pattern of intimidation against the media in Jammu and Kashmir.

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Senior Kashmiri journalist Bashaarat Masood from The Indian Express was called to report to the Cyber Police Station, Srinagar on January 14. He had alleged that he was made to wait for hours on end inside the station, and after spending seven hours, the journalist was told to report back on the next day.

According to a report by The Wire, journalists associated with both national and local publications and freelancers in the valley have reported being called in for questioning by the police and security agencies over routine reporting, social media posts and interactions, including being asked about sources and editorial decisions. The development has ignited fears of reprisal, legal entanglements or further harassment, including fear of being put on no-fly lists, rejected and surveilled.

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Another reporter in Srinagar, Ashiq Hussain from Hindustan Times, was also summoned to the police station. In an editorial piece, the newspaper clarified that it has asked the journalist not to appear unless they send a written summon with reasons.