KULGAM, July 24: The Journalist Union of Kulgam (JUOK) has strongly condemned the alleged harassment of journalists at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, where several reporters were heckled, pushed, and verbally abused by protesting doctors while covering a strike.
According to reports, the journalists were at the hospital to report on the ongoing doctors’ protest following an alleged assault on a medical professional. While attempting to cover both sides of the story, the reporters were allegedly obstructed from carrying out their duties, with one journalist reportedly being physically cornered and forcefully asked to leave the premises.
Terming the incident as a “direct attack on press freedom,” JUOK expressed deep concern over the rising hostility towards media professionals in public spaces. “No protest, regardless of its cause, can justify manhandling or threatening journalists who are performing their professional responsibilities,” said JUOK President G.N. Khanday.
The union has called for a thorough police investigation into the matter and immediate action against those found involved in the act of intimidation. It also urged the hospital administration and concerned authorities to create a safe environment for journalists to report freely and without fear.
JUOK affirmed its solidarity with the media fraternity and reiterated its commitment to standing up against any attempts to undermine the freedom of the press.
