Following the recent Delhi High Court order granting police protection to Amar Kant Singh Chauhan, the Bhind bureau chief of Swaraj Express, senior journalist Rakesh Kumar has praised the decisive role played by the Press Club of India in supporting journalists facing intimidation and violence in Madhya Pradesh.
With over three decades of experience in Indian journalism, Rakesh Kumar expressed deep concern over the increasing pattern of harassment directed at reporters who expose uncomfortable truths. He stated, “The Press Club’s role in drawing national attention to these serious incidents has been crucial. The prompt assistance provided to Chauhan and other journalists proves that the media fraternity will not remain silent in the face of injustice.”
Kumar further remarked, “What is happening in Madhya Pradesh is deeply troubling. Summoning journalists, assaulting them, forcibly stripping them, and coercing false statements is not upholding the law, but rather an abuse of power. In such a hostile environment, the Press Club’s support is not only a moral boost for these journalists but also a reminder that solidarity within the press is our strongest defense.”
The Delhi High Court’s intervention came after Amar Kant Singh Chauhan fled Madhya Pradesh, citing threats to his life following his reports on illegal sand mining and police complicity. Several other journalists, including Dharmendra Ojha (News 24), Shashikant Goyal (Bejod Ratna), and Preetam Singh (NTV Bharat), have also faced similar intimidation, physical attacks, and forced retractions.
Rakesh Kumar called on the journalism community to remain united and vigilant: “We must demand accountability and push for institutional safeguards like comprehensive journalist protection laws. This is not just about one reporter or one state — it’s a fight to preserve the foundation of democracy.”
He urged media organizations, civil society, and constitutional bodies to closely monitor the situation in Madhya Pradesh and hold those abusing their authority accountable.
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