Agartala Press Club urges Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha to act on rising threats and intimidation against journalists ahead of TTAADC elections, seeking investigation, security, and strict action to safeguard press freedom and democratic values.
The Agartala Press Club has formally appealed to Manik Saha, expressing deep concern over what it describes as an alarming rise in threats, intimidation, and abusive conduct directed at working editors and journalists in recent weeks.
In a detailed representation submitted to the Chief Minister, the Press Club highlighted that its current president and several key office-bearers—many of whom also serve as editors of leading newspapers—have allegedly been targeted by elected representatives and influential individuals. According to the letter, there have been deliberate attempts to malign journalists and subject them to social humiliation.
More disturbingly, the memorandum claims that complaints have surfaced regarding death threats issued against media professionals by persons holding constitutional positions. The Press Club described these allegations as “deeply alarming” and warned that such developments strike at the very heart of democratic values and press freedom.
While acknowledging that the Chief Minister has publicly condemned such incidents and taken a strong stand against intimidation of journalists, the Press Club noted that no visible or effective action has yet been initiated by law enforcement agencies. Several days have passed since the concerns were raised, but, according to the Club, there has been little tangible progress on the ground.
This perceived inaction, the Press Club stated, has created an atmosphere of fear among journalists across the state. It has also led to growing mistrust between media professionals and public representatives, potentially widening the gap between institutions meant to work collaboratively in a democratic framework.
The issue gains added urgency as elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council are expected in the near future. The Press Club underlined that a free and fearless press is essential during election periods, when accurate reporting and transparency are critical to informed public participation.
The memorandum stressed that the current situation not only threatens the professional safety of journalists but also undermines democracy and the fundamental right to freedom of expression. The Press Club emphasized that journalists play a crucial role in disseminating factual information, highlighting developmental initiatives, and ensuring accountability in governance.
Reaffirming its confidence in the Chief Minister’s leadership, the Club recalled his previous personal interventions in resolving issues faced by journalists. Those actions, it noted, had strengthened trust between the media fraternity and the government. The Press Club expressed hope that similar decisive action would be taken in the present circumstances.
The representation also made it clear that disagreements over news coverage or editorial decisions should be addressed through democratic dialogue and lawful channels, not through threats or coercion. Any grievance regarding reportage, the Club argued, can be resolved through clarification, rebuttal, or legal remedies, rather than intimidation.
To address the crisis, the Press Club placed four key demands before the state government:
A swift, impartial, and effective investigation into all reported incidents of threats and harassment.
Adequate security arrangements for journalists and editors who have received threats.
Clear directives to law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of reporters working in the field.
Strict and exemplary action against individuals responsible, to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
The Press Club concluded its appeal by stating that prompt and decisive intervention by the Chief Minister would not only ensure the safety of journalists but also send a strong message that the state remains committed to upholding democratic principles and safeguarding a free and independent media.
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As Tripura moves closer to important electoral exercises, the protection of journalists and the preservation of press freedom remain central to maintaining public trust and democratic integrity. The coming days will be crucial in determining how the government responds to the concerns raised by the media fraternity.
