The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of recent attacks on journalists in Tripura, highlighting growing concerns about press freedom and safety in the state. The incidents, which occurred on 21st September, involved journalists being assaulted by miscreants while covering political events.
One such incident involved a journalist in Tripura who was attacked by a group of individuals wielding sticks and sharp weapons during a clothes distribution programme organized by a political party in Hezamara, West Tripura. The journalist’s motorcycle was also stolen during the attack, adding to the severity of the incident.
In another incident on the same day, four BJP workers, including the vice president of the BJP ST Morcha Mangal Debbarma, and journalist Kamal Kanti Tripura from a local TV channel, sustained injuries after supporters of Tipra Motha allegedly attacked a cloth distribution event.
The NHRC has issued notices to the Director General of Police of Tripura, Anurag Dhankar, demanding detailed reports on the incidents within two weeks. This move by the NHRC signifies the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate action to ensure the safety and protection of journalists in the state.
The attacks on journalists in Tripura have raised concerns about press freedom and the ability of journalists to report on events without fear of violence or intimidation. The NHRC’s intervention is a step towards addressing these issues and ensuring that journalists can carry out their work without facing threats to their safety.
