Mangalore: Press Council Chairman warns state government against infringing upon freedom of media

Mangalore: Press Council Chairman warns state government against infringing upon freedom of media

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangalore, Dec 3, 2012: Justice Markandeya Katju, President of the Press Council of India(PCI) and former Supreme Court Judge has said that the Council will initiate strong action in cases of  violation of Freedom of Press by the authorities, be it  political, administrative or police authorities.

Speaking to press persons at Circuit House in Mangalore on December 3, Monday, Justice Katju said the Press Council of India has taken serious cognizance of the harassment of journalists in Mangalore by the police and hooligans. He further added that the Council does not tolerate violation of the Freedom of Press and warned the state government against attempts to curb Freedom of Press and fundamental rights of journalists.

“Freedom of the Press is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution and it is the duty of the State to uphold this right,” Justice Katju said.  

A memorandum  was submitted to Katju by a delegation of journalists from the city, drawing his attention towards the case of the arrest of TV journalist Naveen Soorinje in connection with the homestay attack case.

However, The Press Council of India Chairman refused to comment on the issue stating that it would not be proper for him to comment on the Soorinje case as the matter was sub-judice before the Trial Court as well as the High Court.