(MOREPIC1) Face2News/Chandigarh
The Chandigarh Press Club strongly condemns the action of the Punjab Police and the Punjab Government for registering FIRs against several journalists from the Bathinda region and YouTubers from Ludhiana. These FIRs have reportedly been filed in connection with journalistic reports highlighting the alleged misuse of the official helicopter of the Chief Minister of Punjab.
The Club believes that the government’s action reflects intolerance towards critical reporting. Registering FIRs against journalists and digital content creators is a clear attempt to intimidate and pressurise the media fraternity for reporting on issues of public interest and holding those in power accountable.
If the govt had objections to the facts or interpretation presented in these reports, there were established democratic and legal mechanisms available—such as issuing clarifications, denials, or rebuttals. Resorting to criminal proceedings instead sends a chilling message to journalists and is a deliberate attempt to suppress independent voices and discourage investigative journalism.
The Club is deeply concerned that this is not an isolated incident. There have been earlier instances as well where the Aap govt. in Punjab has taken steps that undermine the freedom of speech and expression, a fundamental pillar of democracy.
The Chandigarh Press Club reiterates that a free, fearless, and independent press is essential for the healthy functioning of a democracy. Any attempt to muzzle the media through coercive state action is unacceptable. The Press Club stands firmly with the journalists and content creators facing these FIRs and demands that the Punjab Government immediately withdraw the cases.
Journalists from Bathinda named in the FIR: Maninderjit Sidhu, Mintu Gursaria, Mandeep Singh and RTI activist Manik Goyal. FIRs have also been registered against six YouTubers from Ludhiana. The Chandigarh Press Club reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the protection of press freedom and freedom of expression, said Mr. Saurabh Duggal, President and Rajesh Dhall, Secretary General of , Chandigarh Press Club