Ganderbal: The Ganderbal Press Association (GPA) expresses serious concern and strong condemnation over the unfortunate incident that occurred at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, where some journalists were heckled, pushed, and verbally assaulted by protesting doctors while reporting on the ongoing strike.
It is deeply unfortunate that while carrying out their professional duties to present both sides of the issue, including the alleged assault on a doctor and the strike that followed, journalists became targets of aggression and were obstructed from doing their job. One of the reporters were even physically cornered and insulted, with attempts made to forcefully remove them from the hospital premises.
The GPA considers this incident as a direct attack on press freedom and an alarming trend of intimidation towards the media. No protest, regardless of the cause, justifies violence against journalists, especially when they are highlighting public concerns and playing a vital role in accountability and information dissemination.
GPA President Sofi Ayaz, along with all members of the association, strongly demands a police investigation into the matter and immediate action against those responsible. We urge the hospital administration and concerned authorities to ensure that such incidents do not repeat in the future.
The Ganderbal Press Association stands in solidarity with all media professionals and reiterates.
Issued by:
Ganderbal Press Association (GPA)
