Journalist assaults trigger NHRC probe; three states asked to submit reports

New Delhi: The NHRC of India has acted following media reports of assaults on journalists at different locations in Kerala, Manipur, and Tripura.

The incidents occurred on August 30, 2025, in Kerala and Manipur, and on September 21, 2025, in Tripura. In response, the Commission has instructed the Directors General of Police (DGPs) of the three states to submit detailed reports on the incidents within a fortnight.

In Tripura, a journalist covering a clothes distribution programme organised by a political party in Hezamara, West Tripura, was attacked by a group wielding sticks and sharp weapons. His motorcycle was also stolen. In Manipur, a journalist sustained severe injuries after being shot twice with an air gun while covering a flower festival in Laii Village, Senapati District. Meanwhile, in Kerala, a journalist was reportedly assaulted near Mangattukavala, Thodupuzha, as he returned from a wedding function. All three victims were hospitalised, and police registered cases in each instance.

The NHRC emphasised that journalists must be able to operate without fear or obstruction, given their critical role in upholding democracy and transparency. The Commission’s notices demand comprehensive details about the incidents, the measures taken, and steps planned to prevent recurrence.

NHRC action highlights the growing concern over media personnel safety in India, particularly in politically sensitive regions. The Commission has frequently acted on complaints and media reports indicating human rights violations, underscoring the need for strong protection measures for journalists.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India has taken suo motu cognisance of assaults on three journalists in Kerala, Manipur, and Tripura, following media reports. The assaults occurred on August 30, 2025, in Kerala and Manipur, and on September 21, 2025, in Tripura. In each case, journalists were allegedly attacked while carrying out professional duties or returning from work-related engagements.

In Tripura, the victim, attending a clothes distribution programme organised by a political party in Hezamara, West Tripura, was assaulted by a group of miscreants with sticks and sharp weapons. During the attack, his motorcycle was also stolen. In Manipur, a journalist was shot twice with an air gun while covering a flower festival in Laii Village, Senapati District, resulting in severe injuries. In Kerala, a journalist returning from a wedding function in Mangattukavala, Thodupuzha, was beaten by a group of individuals. All three victims required hospitalisation, and police have registered cases in each state.

The NHRC has issued notices to the DGPs of Kerala, Manipur, and Tripura, directing them to submit detailed reports within two weeks, including the circumstances of the assaults and the measures taken. The Commission emphasised that journalists play a vital role in maintaining democratic values and ensuring transparency, and their safety must be guaranteed.

Historically, the NHRC has acted on media reports or complaints indicating potential human rights violations, especially those affecting press freedom. With increasing attacks on journalists in sensitive regions, the Commission continues to advocate for strong protection measures, reinforcing the importance of a safe working environment for media personnel.
(With ANI inputs)