The Allahabad High Court, led by Justice Shamim Ahmed, has strongly advocated for the revocation of licences of journalists engaged in anti-social activities like blackmail. The court’s directive follows a case exposing a gang in Uttar Pradesh misusing media credentials to defame individuals, posing a significant threat to journalistic integrity.
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UTTAR PRADESH: Recently, The Allahabad High Court has emphatically stated that journalists found guilty of engaging in anti-social activities such as blackmail should have their licences revoked. This stern directive came from Justice Shamim Ahmed during the hearing of a case involving a journalist and a newspaper distributor accused of blackmailing activities under the guise of journalism.
The case in question, registered under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, revealed allegations of a gang operating within Uttar Pradesh. This group reportedly exploited their media credentials to publish damaging articles about individuals, aiming to defame them and tarnish their social image. The criminal activities described not only misuse the power of the press but also pose a severe threat to the integrity of journalistic practice.
Justice Shamim Ahmed, addressing the gravity of the allegations, remarked-
“The matter is very serious and the State Machinery should promptly address it by revoking the licences of journalists engaged in such antisocial activities under the guise of their profession. The State government possesses the necessary machinery to halt such activities if found to be true.”
thus underscoring the urgent need for regulatory measures against such misuse.
The court’s decision to deny the quashing of criminal proceedings against the accused highlights a firm stance on maintaining journalistic ethics and upholding the law. By advocating for the cancellation of licences, the court is sending a clear message about the severe consequences of deviating from the ethical paths that journalism demands.
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This judicial call for action suggests an emerging pattern of accountability where those in the media who choose to engage in misconduct will face significant repercussions. The enforcement of such measures is crucial in preserving the dignity and trust in journalism, ensuring that it remains a tool for truth and justice rather than a weapon for personal vendettas or criminal pursuits.
In a recent decision, the High Court ruled against a journalist accused under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. The counsel for the accused argued that their clients had been falsely implicated in the case and that the charge sheet was filed without proper investigation.
The journalists, represented by Advocate Rajat Pratap Singh, have been embroiled in controversy following their report on the unlawful felling of a tree. Their defense argued vehemently against the accusations, stating-
“In the current scenario, the counsel for the accused argued that their clients have been wrongly accused, emphasizing that the charge sheet was filed without adequate investigation.”
The defense further clarified the basis of their argument, suggesting that the charges were retributive, stemming from the journalists’ willingness to expose environmental violations.
“The Court was informed that the accused were falsely implicated after publishing a news article about illegal tree cutting. Additionally, it was contended that no offense was committed under the SC/ST Act.”
-the defense counsel added.
Contrarily, the State’s representation, led by Government Advocate Dr. VK Singh and Additional Advocate General Vinod Kumar Shahi, presented a starkly different view. They argued that the evidence suggests a prima facie case against the journalists. The state’s contention that the journalist failed to produce an Information Department-issued license was a critical point in their argument, reflecting on procedural lapses by the journalists.
The court, after evaluating the arguments from both sides, concluded that there was sufficient ground to proceed with the charges.
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The judge noted-
“In the present case,the applicant, who asserts to be a journalist for the newspaper Swatantra Bharat, fails to provide documentation verifying their affiliation with the publication. Despite court inquiries, neither the applicants nor their counsel could furnish such documentation.”
This case highlights the delicate balance between journalistic freedom and the need for accountability in reporting. While the journalists argue wrongful implication, the lack of proper documentation has significantly weakened their position. The court’s decision to not interfere further solidifies the stance that legal protocols must be adhered to, even in the pursuit of journalistic endeavors.
CASE TITLE:
Puneet Mishra Alias Puneet Kumar Mishra and Another vs State of UP
