Adjudications rendered by the Council in (Under Section 13...

Adjudications rendered by the Council in (Under Section 13) on 09.10.2017

MEETING OF THE INQUIRY COMMITTEE-I SCHEDULED TO BE HELD ON 19-20

September, 2017 in New Delhi

1. Complaint of Shri K.P Singh, Editor, Dainik In-Dino, Meerut, U.P against the Superintendent and

Principal of Sardar Bhallabh Bhai Patel Medical relates to Lala Lajpat Rai Medical college.13/5/17-18

2. Complaint of Dr. Jawahar Lal Nigam, Editor, Dainik Universe Reporter, Gorakhpur, U.P. against the

Managing Director, Power Co-operation Limited, Lucknow, U.P. 13/238/16-17

3. Complaint of Shri Om Prakash Baghel, Chief Editor, Dunia Ek Nazar Mein, Aligarh, UP against Shri

Dharmesh Kumar, Village Development Officer, Aligarh, UP. 13/16/17-18

4. Complaint of Sh. Om Prakash Baghel, Chief Editor, Dunia Ek Nazar Mein, Aligarh, U.P. against Shri

Arvind Kumar Yadav, Village-Gauda, Kasganj (U.P), & Government of Uttar Pradesh 13/260/16-17

5. Complaint of Shri. Awadesh Pandey, Editor, Gaon-Gaon Ki Khabar, UP against taint of Shri. Awadesh

Pandey, Editor, Gaon-Gaon Ki Khabar, Shrawasti, UP against Shri Deepak Kumar Bhatt,

Superintendent of Police, Shrawasti, U.P.13/22/17-18

6. Complaint of Dr. Nisha Nigam, Chief Editor, Har-Har Sach Ke Liye Tatpar, Gorakhpur, UP. Against

the Director General, DAVP, New Delhi 13/256/16-17

7. Complaint of Shri Upendra Chaudhary, editor, All India Crime Branch, Weekly Samachar, Shamli

(U.P) against Shri Gaje Singh, Former D.I.O, Distt. Collector and Shri Deepak Kumar, Asstt to D.I.O

Shamli. U.P 13/251/17-18

8. Suo-motu cognizance with regard to attack on Shri Ranjit Sinha, Associate Editor, Arunachal Times by

unknown assailants. 13/40/17-18

9. Complaint of Shri Mohan Nagpal Sr. Journalist/News Editor and other journalists of Daily Pilot,

Bhatinda (Punjab) against Shri Kanwaljit Singh, District Public Relations Officer, Bhatinda, PB.

13/26/17-18

10. Complaint of Shri Tarun Kumar, President, International Council for Newspaper and Journalist

(ICFNA), New Delhi against Delhi Police. 13/27/17-18

MEETING OF INQUIRY COMMITTEE-II SCHEDULED TO BE HELD New Delhi on

03-04 October, 2017

11. Complaint of Shri Suman Kumar, Editor and Shri Raviranjan Kumar, Photographer, Desh ke Pahredar

against the Principle/Teachers/Employees of the Pariyojana Balika Uchch Vidyalaya, Chaksalem, Patori,

Samastipur and Police Authorities. 13/217/16-17.

12. Complaint of Shri Anurag Mishra, Journalist, Dainik Aaj, Shahjahanpur, U.P., against the Galla Mafia,

Shahjahanpur, U.P. 13/19/17-18 .

13. Complaint of Shri S.N. Shyam, Sr. Journalist/State President, Patna, Bihar against the Secretary, Bihar

School Examination Board, Patna (Bihar) 13/243/16-17.

14. Suo-motu cognizance with regard to “cash for coverage” to journalists for covering the event of National

Highways Authority of India at Angul, Odhisha 13/49/17-18.

15. Complaint of Shri Hariom Gaur, Bureau Chief Nai Duniya M.P against Shri Lokesh Kumar Jangid, Sub-

Divisional Officer (Revenue)/SDM, Sheopur, M.P 13/20/17-18.

16. Suo-motu cognisance with regard to murder of Shri Brijkishore Brajesh, Journalist of Hindi Daily in

Samastipur, Bihar 13/203/16-17

17. Suo-Motu cognizance pertaining to attack on a Reporter of Sakshi Daily, Shri A.D. Babu by a gang at

Nathavaram in Visakhapatnam Rural District of Andhra Pradesh. 13/11/17-18

Press Council of India

SI.No. 1 F.No. 13/5/17-18-PCI

Shri K.P. Singh, Journalist, Dainik In-Dino, Meerut.

The Superintendent & Principle, Sardar Ballabh Bhai Patel Hospital, Meerut.

Adjudication Dated 9.10.2017

This complaint dated 6.4.2017 has been filed by Shri K.P. Singh, Journalist, Dainik In-Dino, Meerut (U.P.) against the Superintendent & Principal, Sardar Ballabh Bhai Patel Hospital affiliated with Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital, Meerut for allegedly harassing and not giving free of cost medical facility. The complainant submitted that he is an accreditated journalist from I&PR Department of Government of Uttar Pradesh and all the accreditated journalists avail free medical facility from government hospitals and it is also mentioned on the accreditation Card.

The complainant submitted that on 27.10.2016 he met with an accident and his leg was fractured for which he had to go to the hospital. The hospital authority denied him free medical treatment and asked him to purchase plaster and get X-ray done against requisite payment.

He submitted that hostile attitude of the respondent hospital authorities is due to the fact that he once made a complaint against them in NHRC by furnishing a news clippings dated 28.9.2012 of Hindustan Times regarding alleged irregularities in hospital whereby NHRC called for a Report from the hospital. Annoyed with this, to teach him a lesson they have been denying free medical facility to him. The complainant submitted that the behaviour of the respondent amounts to curtailment of the freedom of the press. According to the complainant respondent is protected by Seniors, so he does not care about government orders. He has requested the Council to take action against the respondent.

No Comments

A Notice for Comments was issued to the Respondent on 25.5.2017 but received no response.

Further Communication from Respondent

Two responses dated 24.6.20147 and 11.7.2017 have been received in the Council from the respondent, Principal, SVBP hospital wherein it is submitted that work in the hospital is being carried out perfectly. None of the employees of the hospital has misbehaved with any of the patient and medicines are being provided to the patients on regular basis. It is submitted that the complainant in his treatment book has mentioned

the registration no. IV-578 which is in real, has been assigned to one of the employees of the hospital.

In his further letter dated 13.7.2017, the respondent, Principal, SVBP Hospital has submitted that following the hearing held on 12.7.2017 as a follow up action, they have set up an Inquiry Committee of Doctors to inquire the grievances of the complainant.

A copy of the aforesaid communications was forwarded to the complainant on 30.8.2017 for information.

Further letter from the complainant

The complainant vide his letter dated 16.8.2017 has filed further papers in support of his complaint. With his reply, he has enclosed a letter dated 20.7.2017 received from Shri Subhash Singh, Principal of Lala Lajpat Rai Medical College, Meerut wherein the Principal has requested the complainant to meet him in the College in order to arrive at settlement of the matter. He has further enclosed a letter dated 21.7.2017 which is addressed to the Principal, Lala Lajpat Rai Medical College, Meerut wherein he has reiterated his complaint.

A copy of the aforesaid letter was forwarded to the respondents on 24.8.2017 for information.

Report of the Inquiry Committee

Following an adjournment dated 12.07.2017, the matter came for final hearing before Inquiry Committee held on 19.9.2017 at New Delhi. The complainant, Shri K P Singh appeared in person. Dr. Ajeet Kumar, CMS, Dr. Vibhu Sahani, Professor and Dr. Dinesh Rana , Dy. Superintendent, appeared for the respondent.

Dr. Ajeet Chowdhary, Superintendent of hospital states that charges already recovered from the complainant shall be refunded to him as per the policy of the government. He also states that all Accredited Journalists shall be given due treatment in future as per policy. In view of the aforesaid assurance the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to proceed in the case any further. With the aforesaid observations the Inquiry Committee recommends to the Council to dispose of the matter.

Held

The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and report of the Inquiry Committee accepts reasons findings and adopts the report of the Committee and Dispose of the complaint in wake of assurance given by the respondent.

PRESS COUNCIL OF INDIA

Sl.No. 2 F.No. 13/238/16-17/PCI

Complainant Respondent Dr. Jawahar Lal Nigam, The Editor, Dainik Universe Reporter, Gorakhpur, U.P.

Managing Director, Power Corporation Limited, Lucknow, U.P.

ADJUDICATION Dated: 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 21.02.2017 has been filed by Dr. Jawahar Lal Nigam, Editor, Dainik Universe Reporter, Gorakhpur, U.P. against the Managing Director, Power Corporation Limited, Lucknow, U.P for non-empanelment of his newspaper for advertisement by U.P. Power Corporation since 2013 despite fulfilling all requirement.

The complainant has submitted that his newspaper, Dainik Universe Reporter is being circulated from Gorakhpur since 2010. Dainik Universe Reporter is already empanelled with D.A.V.P (Information & Broadcasting Ministry) and also with information and Public Relation Department, U.P Government. In order to get empanelled with the U.P. Power Corporation Limited, Shakti Bhawan, Lucknow, the complainant had submitted all required documents on 01.10.2012. He further submitted that vide letter dated 17.08.2013 respondent department asked to submit a copy of Registration Certificate along with D.A.V.P rate card, the same was also filed by him on 08.10.2013, when complainant enquired about the status of his case, he was told that his matter was placed before the Managing Director for approval and would be listed in Advt. list soon. The complainant submitted that the matter has not been listed with Power Corporation Limited’s Advt. list even after repeated request to Shri Indra kumar Bhardwaj (Joint Secretary), Power Corporation Limited, Sanjay Agarwal (Chairman) Power Corporation Limited and Head Secretary (Energy Resource), U.P. Govt. Nothing has been done so far. The complainant has requested the Council to direct the Power Corporation Limited to empanel his newspaper.

Initially a notice dated 08.03.2017 for comments was issued to the respondent Managing Director, U.P., Power Corporation Limited, but no response has been received despite sending a Notice dated 27.04.2017 for statement in Reply.

Written statement

Shri R.K.Jain, Staff Officer-cum-Chairman, UP Power Corporation Ltd. vide letter dated 16.9.2017 submitted that the complainant was requested to fulfil necessary requirements in response to his letter dated 01.10.2012. Due to small circulation of the paper it was not empanelled. Referring to an Office Order dated 19.12.2014 of the Corporation, respondent sated that there is a policy decision by the Govt. through DAVP certificate that only those newspapers are to be empanelled in the Corporation for advertisement which have the circulation of 65,000 or more therefore, it is not possible to empanel the complainant newspaper.

Recommendation of the Inquiry Committee

The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 19.09.2017 at New Delhi. The complainant appeared in person whereas Shri Pradeep Kumar, Dy. General Manager and Shri Deep Prajapati, R.O. represented the respondent authority.

The complainant is aggrieved by the non-empanelment of the newspaper for the

advertisement by the U.P. Power Corporation Ltd. Mr. Pradeep Kumar, Deputy General Manager of the respondent Corporation appears before the Inquiry Committee and states that after 24th January, 2014, no newspaper whose circulation is less than 65,000 have been empanelled for advertisement. He states that the circulation of the complainant’s newspaper is less than that and, accordingly, the complainant’s request for empanelment had been turned down. However, he admits that the copy of the said order has not been communicated to the complainant.

The Inquiry Committee directs the respondent Corporation to make available to the

complainant the Order by which his prayer for empanelment has been rejected. The complainant is given liberty to assail the same in accordance with law.

Held The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and Report of the

Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the Committee and decides to dispose of the complaint.

Press Council of India Sl.No. 3 File No.13/260/16-17-PCI.

Complainant Respondents

Sh. Om Prakash Baghel, The Chief Secretary, Chief Editor, Government of U.P.,

Dunia Ek Nazar Mein, Lucknow.

Aligarh (U.P.). versus

The Secretary, Home (Police) Department,

Government of U.P.,

Lucknow.

The District Collector,

Aligarh (U.P.).

The Sr. Superintendent of Police,

Aligarh (U.P.).


Kasganj (U.P.)

The Superintendent of Police,

Kasganj (U.P.).

Shri Arvind Kumar Yadav,

Village-Gauda,

Police Station-Patiyali,

Kasganj (U.P.).

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 23.3.2017 has been filed by Shri Om Prakash Baghel, Chief Editor,

Dunia Ek Nazar Mein, Aligarh (U.P.) against Shri Arvind Kumar Yadav, Village-Gauda,

Kasganj (U.P.) for alleged threaten over telephone. According to the complainant, he sought

information about Gram Panchayats-Gauda and Hathodavan for publication in his newspaper

under RTI Act, 2005 from the PIO/Block Development Officer, Patiyali, Kasganj on 7.11.2016.

In the absence of the reply, he filed first Appeal on 26.12.2016 before the District Panchayat

Office, Kasganj and second appeal on 30.1.2017 before Hon’ble State Information

Commissioner. The complainant alleged that annoyed with this, Shri Arvind Kumar Yadav, son

of a Gram Pradhan-Smt. Munni Devi threatened him over mobile and pressurised him to stop

seeking information. The complainant drew the attention of the Government of U.P. on

23.3.2017. While apprehending any untoward incident, the complainant has requested the

Council take necessary action against the respondent.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the Government of U.P. and Shri Arvind

Kumar Yadav on 22.5.2017.

Reply of Superintendent of Police, Kasganj

Shri Sunil Kumar Singh, Superintendent of Police, Kasganj vide his written statement

dated 28.7.2017 has informed that the matter was investigated by the Additional Superintendent

of Police, Kasganj and found that the complainant sought information under RTI Act from Block

Development Officer, Patiyali regarding development works in Gram Panchayat of Gonda and

Hathodavan. In the absence of reply, the complainant filed an Appeal in this regard. Thereafter,

Shri Shyamveer Singh, a relative of respondent-Shri Arvind Kumar, conversed with the

complainant over mobile on 18.3.2017 on the basis of this conversation, apprehending any

untoward incident filed this complaint. The respondent further stated that the matter is pending

consideration before the Press Council of India, therefore, police cannot give its comments on it,

however, the local police have been directed to keep a watch in the matter.

Giving reference to the Council’s Notice, Joint Secretary, Govt. of U.P. has addressed a

letter dated 8.6.2017 to the Senior Superintendent of Police, Kasganj for filing the reply in the

matter. A copy of the same was endorsed to Council to information.

Reply of Sr. Superintendent of Police, Aligarh

Shri Rajesh Kumar Pandey, Sr. Superintendent of Police, Aligarh vide letter dated

16.9.2017 while submitting report of Dr. Yashveer Singh, Superintendent of Police, Village-

Janpad, Aligarh stated that the complainant submitted in his statement that Shri Arvind Kumar

Yadav is son of Smt. Muni Devi, Village Pradhan, Kasganj. Smt. Muni Devi has filed fake

complaint against one Shri Himachal of her village to higher authority. The appeal was filed by

the Commissioner, Aligarh Mandal, Aligarh who gave decision in favour of Shri Himachal on

30.08.2017. Infuriated over the decision Smt. Muni Devi and her son Shri Arvind Kumar Yadav

threatened the complainant. The complainant has further informed that is with regard to his

grievance, he has apprised the Press Council on 15.09.2017 that the information sought by him

under RTI is related to Janpad Kasganj and security has been provided to him by the SHO,

Madrak, Aligarah. Further, in regard to information sought by the complainant, Shri Om Praksh

Baghel from Smt. Muni Devi, Gram Pradhan relating to development work of Gram Panchayat

Gonda Janpad Kasganj, the report is expected from the Superintendent of Police Janpad

Kasganj.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 19.09.2017 at New

Delhi. There was no appearance on behalf of the complainant. However, Shri Hari Singh,

Inspector, Shri Brahmanand, Tehsildar and Shri Sanjeev Kumar, S.O., appeared on behalf of the

respondent side.

Despite service of notice, the complainant has not chosen to appear. Mr. Hari Singh,

Inspector, Kasganj Police Station has appeared on behalf of the Superintendent of Police and

states that a proceeding has been initiated against the person who allegedly threatened the

complainant. In view of the aforesaid, the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to proceed any

further and recommends for disposal of the complaint.

Held

The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and Report of the Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the Committee and decides to

dispose the complaint.


Complainant Respondents Sh. Awadesh Pandey, The Chief Secretary, Editor, Government of U.P., Gaon-Gaon Ki Khabar, Lucknow. Shrawasti (U.P.).

The Secretary, Home (Police) Department, Government of U.P., Lucknow.

The Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh Police, Lucknow.

Shri Deepak Kumar Bhatt, Superintendent of Police, G.R.P., Allahabad (former Superintendent of Police, Shrawasti), Allahabad (U.P.)

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 25.4.2017 has been filed by Shri Awadesh Pandey, Editor, Gaon-Gaon Ki Khabar, Shrawasti (U.P.) against Shri Deepak Kumar Bhatt, Superintendent of Police, Shrawasti (Presently-Superintendent of Railway Police, GRP Allahabad) for alleging, misbehaving and threatening him during collection of news. According to the complainant, he went to the office of the Superintendent of Police on 24.4.2017 for collection of news with regard to a rescued girl, where other victims were also raising their grievances before the Superintendent of Police. The complainant further informed that when he started video recording on his mobile, the respondent-SP stated misbehaving with him in dictatorial manner. The complainant alleged that during the course, the PRO of the Superintendent of Police snatched his mobile and gave it to the SP, who deleted the video from his mobile and started abusing and warned him not to enter his office again and also threatened to close down his newspaper by implicating in false case. According to the complainant, he informed the Director General of Police and Inspector General, Zone Gorakhpur on mobile but no action was taken. The complainant also drew the attention of the respondent-SP on 1.6.2017 but no reply was received by him.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the respondent on 19.6.2017.

Written Statement Shri Deepak Kumar Bhatt, Superintendent of Railway Police, GRP Allahabad

Section, Allahabad vide his written statement dated 5.7.2017 has stated that the

allegations levelled by the complainant against him in the complaint is false. According to the respondent, he has no information that the complainant had recorded any video or not or that his PRO had deleted the video, and if he did so, only the PRO can inform about it. The respondent further submitted that only complainant’s newspaper published the news regarding misbehaviour and the same was not produced before him. The respondent stated that had he misbehaved with the complainant, other newspapers and electronic media would have also highlighted the news. He has further stated that he has cordial relations with the media.

A copy of the written statement was forwarded to the complainant on 25.7.2017 for counter comments.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 19.09.2017 at New Delhi. The complainant appeared in person whereas Shri Rajesh Kumar, Sub-Inspector represented the respondent, Shri Deepak Kumar Bhatt, Superintendent of Police.

The Inquiry Committee has heard the complainant and representative of the respondent and also perused the averment made in the complaint. The respondent Superintendent of Police has filed the written statement in which he had denied the allegation made by the complainant. The Inquiry Committee does not find any reason to discard the contention of the respondent. The Inquiry Committee, accordingly, recommends for dismissal of the complaint.


Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the Committee and decides to dismiss the complaint.


Complainant Respondents Dr.(Smt.) Nisha Nigam, The Director General, Chief Editor, Directorate of Advertising & Har-Har, Visual Publicity (DAVP), Gorakhpur (U.P.) New Delhi.

ADJUDICATION Dated: 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 21.3.2017 has been filed by Dr.(Smt.) Nisha Nigam, Chief Editor, Har-Har, Gorakhpur (U.P.) against the Directorate of Advertising & Visual Publicity (DAVP) for non-inclusion of her newspaper in empanelment list for advertisement. According to the complainant, her newspaper is regularly being published since 1971 and she applied online on 31.8.2012 along with all required documents. In response thereto, the respondent-DAVP informed vide its letter dated 24.12.2012 that her newspaper could not be empanelled for advertisements due to “poor printing”. The complainant further informed that after perusal of the documents of her newspaper on 7.1.2013, it came to her notice that the Panel Advisory Committee (PAC) in its meeting held on November 19-21, 2012 considered her case and out of six- members of PAC three-members approved her application. The complainant alleged that the newspapers, which got approval of three-members of the PAC were empanelled whereas her newspaper was deprived. According to the complainant, she took up the matter with the Director General, Additional Director General and Director personally and telephonically on 7.1.2013 & 8.1.2013 and they assured for empanelment but to no avail. The complainant alleged that her newspaper could not be empanelled due to mistake of the respondent-DAVP and the action of the DAVP amounts to suppression of the freedom of press. While requesting for condonation of delay in filing the complaint, she has requested the Council to direct the respondent-DAVP for empanelment of her newspaper.

Notice for Comments was issued to the DAVP on 25.5.2017.

Written statement In response to Council’s letter dated 31.8.2017, Shri R.C.Joshi, Director, DAVP vide

letter dated 11.09.2017 submitted that DAVP had not received any application in the name of ‘Har Har’ as per records available. The Hindi Weekly ‘Har Har’ published from Gorakhpur by Dr. Smt. Nisha Nigam (name of the Publisher) had applied for empanelment in the month of August, 2012. The weekly was not recommended for empanelment by PAC in its meeting dated 19-21, November, 2012 due to smudgy photographs found in the issues. The same was intimated to the publisher vide letter dated 24.12.2012.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 19.09.2017 at New Delhi. The complainant appeared in person whereas Shri R.C.Joshi, Director, DAVP presented the respondent.

The complainant is aggrieved by the non-empanelment of the newspaper by the respondent DAVP. The Inquiry Committee has heard the complainant and the representative of the DAVP. In the facts and circumstances of the case, the Inquiry Committee directs that in case in future the complainant makes application for empanelment, the DAVP will consider the same in accordance with law expeditiously. With the aforesaid direction, the Inquiry Committee recommends for disposal of the complaint.


Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the Committee and decides to dispose of the complaint.


Item No. 6 File No.13/251/17-18-PCI.


Shri Upendra Choudhary, The Chief Secretary, Editor/Accredited Journalist, Government of U.P., Lucknow.

All India Crime Branch Weekly,

Shamli (U.P.). versus

The Director, Information & Public Relations Officer,

Government of U.P., Lucknow (U.P.)


District Shamli (U.P.)

The District Information Officer,

District Shamli (U.P.)

Sh. Gaje Singh,

District Information Officer, Meerut, (former District Information Officer, Shamli).

The Addl. District Information Officer,

Shamli (U.P.)

Adjudication

09.10.2017

This complaint dated 10.3.2017 has been filed by Shri Upendra Choudhary,

Editor/Accredited Journalist, All India Crime Branch, Hindi Weekly, Shamli (U.P.)

against the District Information Officer and the District Collector, Shamli alleging non-

renewal of his accreditation by them with malafide intent. According to the complainant,

after establishment of Shamli as a new district, he was the first journalist to get an

accreditation card (Card No.1) but despite that the respondent-Shri Gaje Singh (former

DIO, Shamli) did not include him in the District Committee constituted for the purpose

of journalist’s welfare. The complainant further submitted that he complained to the

higher officers in this regard and annoyed with this, Shri Gaje Singh issued Card No.1 to

another journalist maliciously by misleading the higher officers. The complainant alleged

that Shri Gaje Singh began instigating the District Collector, Shamli and the Assistant

District Information Officer-Shri Deepak Kumar against him and even after his transfer

to Meerut District, he did not stop to interfere in the District Information Office, Shamli

and as a result they started to harass him in several ways. The complainant further

alleged that he applied for renewal of accreditation card along with all requirement

documents on 21.1.2017 but an amount of Rs.5,000/- was demanded by the ADIO-Shri

Deepak Kumar and other employees. He made a complaint to the District Collector,

Shamli in this regard but he refused renewal of the card stating that he has been

publishing critical news item against them.

In the meantime, the Secretariat of the Council has received an endorsement dated

7.3.2017 addressed to the Director Information, Department of Information & Public

Relations, Govt. of U.P., Lucknow by Shri Sujit Kumar, District Collector, Shamli

wherein he has stated that the Dy. District Collector, Shamli and Additional District

Information Officer, Shamli provided a joint report with regard to the renewal of

accreditation to the complainant intimating that his newspaper is irregular and being an

editor of a newspaper he got accreditation. It has been further stated that the complainant

pressurised the officers in the garb of journalism and RTI Act with a view to gain illegal

financial benefits and the Superintendent of Police, Shamli has been directed to take

necessary action against the complainant in this regard. Keeping in view the above

circumstances, the District Collector has recommended dismissing the complainant’s

press accreditation.

The complainant vide his further letter dated 28.3.2017 informed that an LIU

investigation was made for renewal of accreditation card on the direction of the District

Collector, Shamli and an amount of Rs.10,000/- has been demanded by the concerned

Inspector-Shri Tiwari in this regard, which was refused by him. Annoyed with this, Shri

Tiwari submitted LIU report on false facts due to which his press accreditation has been

rejected.

The complainant vide his further letter dated 28.4.2017 addressed to the

Superintendent of Police, Shamli along with an endorsement to PCI alleged that Shri

Navneet Singh, Computer Operator, Office of District Information Office, Shamli filed

an false case on 27.4.2017 in Police Station-Adarsh Mandi.

Notices for Comments were issued to the respondents on 25.4.2017.

Comments of ADIO, Shamli

Shri Deepak Kumar, ADIO, Shamli vide his comments dated 11.5.2017 while

denying the allegation of the complainant alleged that the complaint is false and baseless

and filed with a view to pressurise him. According to him, he was posted in Shamli on

31.12.2016 and on the same day, Shri Gaje Singh, DIO was transferred to Meerut. The

respondent further informed that due to implementation of code of conduct during U.P.

Legislative Elections-2017, the work of the renewal of accreditation card could not start

but the District Collector, Shamli was directed by Director Information, I&PRD, Govt. of

U.P., Lucknow on 6.2.2017 for completion of work relating to accreditation card by

28.2.2017. Accordingly, all accredited journalists were asked to comply with all

requirements for the same but the complainant did not submit the documents till date due

to which complainant’s newspaper was shown irregular in the Monthly Report, which

was sent to the I&PRD. According to the respondent, he obtained accreditation cards

from all accredited journalists and submitted a note to the District Collector on 23.2.2017

by mentioning complainant at Card No.1 but the District Collector returned the same by

putting up two point query i.e. (i) whether the newspapers/magazines are regular being

published; and (ii) produce copies of the newspapers/magazine. The respondent further

submitted that on the basis of the report regarding non-submission of copies of

newspapers by the complainant, his accreditation could not be renewed and the District

Collector vide his letter dated 7.3.2017 to the Director Information, I&PRD

recommended for rejection of complainant’s accreditation card. The respondent also

submitted that the complainant also filed a complaint before the Chief Minister of U.P.

and an investigation is being conducted by the Commissioner, Saharanpur Division. The

respondent alleged that he and his subordinates are being harassed by the complainant in

the office by making casteist comments. He produced a CD in this regard. While denying

the allegation of demanding money, the respondent has requested the Council to dismiss

the case.

A copy of the comments was forwarded to the complainant on 18.5.2017.

Comments of Shri Gaje Singh

Shri Gaje Singh, Addl. District Information Officer, Meerut (the then ADIO,

Shamli) vide his comments dated 15.5.2017 while denying the allegation of the

complainant submitted that the complaint is totally false, misleading and baseless. The

respondent submitted he was transferred on 31.12.2016 and the process of renewal of

accreditation card was started from January, 2017 to 28.2.2017 with the approval of

District Collector. With regard to the accreditation card number, the respondent

submitted that the card numbers are being issued by the Headquarters. He denied the

allegation of malafide intention towards the complainant. The respondent further stated

that the complainant is levelling false and baseless allegations on being asked for copies

of newspaper as per requisite formalities. He has requested the Council to dismiss the

complaint.

A copy of the above comments was forwarded to the complainant on 25.5.2017.

Comments of Govt. of Director, I&PRD

Shri Sudesh Kumar Ojha, Director Information, Information & Public Relations

Department, Govt. of U.P., Lucknow vide his comments dated 24.5.2017 informed that

the press accreditation of the complainant has been rejected vide their letter dated

8.5.2017 on the basis of the investigation report of the District Collector, Shamli.


Counter Comments of the complainant

The complainant vide his counter comments dated 3.6.2017 while reiterating his

complaint has alleged that the respondents, under a conspiracy, made a false report

against him and sent it to the Information & Public Relations Department, Govt. of U.P.

and on this basis, the Government has rejected his press accreditation. He has requested

the Council for an early hearing.

A copy of the counter comments was forwarded to all the respondents on

12.6.2017.

Reply from I&PRD, Govt.of U.P.

Dr. Ghyaneshwar Tripathi, Additional Director, Information & Public Relations

Department, Govt. of U.P., Lucknow vide his letter dated 12.7.2017, addressed to the

Under Secretary, Govt. of U.P., Lucknow along with an endorsement to the Press

Council, has informed that the press accreditation of the complainant has been rejected

vide letter dated 8.5.2017 on the basis of the recommendation made by the District

Collector, Shamli in his letter dated 7.3.2017.


The Additional Director, Information & Public Relations Department, Govt. of

U.P., Lucknow was also requested vide Council’s letter dated 14.8.2017 to provide a

copy of the investigation report dated 7.3.2017 of the District Collector, Shamli but

received no reply.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 19.09.2017 at

New Delhi, Shri Sandeep Kumar, Information Officer, on behalf of the Chief Secretary,

Government of Uttar Pradesh and Shri Deepak Kumar, Additional District Information

Officer ADIO, Shamli have appeared for the respondent. The complainant has not

appeared.

Despite service of notice, the complainant has not chosen to appear. The Inquiry

Committee has perused the complaint and all other connected papers and finds no merit

in the complaint.

The Inquiry Committee, accordingly, recommends for dismissal of the complaint.

Held

The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and report of the Inquiry

Committee accepts reasons findings and adopts the report of the Committee and Dismiss

the complaint.

Press Council of India Item No. 7 F.No.13/40/17-18-PCI.

Suo-motu cognizance with regard to attack on Shri Ranjit Sinha, Associate Editor, Arunachal Times by unknown assailants.

Facts

Adjudication 09.10.2017

The Council took Suo-motu cognizance when it come across a news report appeared in the Arunachal Times issue dated 8.7.2017 under the caption “Arunachal Times Journalist assaulted, press bodies condemn attack” reporting that a Sr. Journalist and Associate Editor of Arunachal Times, Shri Ranjit Singh was assaulted on 6.7.2017 while he was going back home after completing his work in the office in Itanagar. It also noted that there have been several such attacks on journalists in Arunachal Pradesh in the last few years but no one has so far been arrested and prosecuted.

A report on facts of the case was called for from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh on 13.7.2017 but there has been no response for it. Simultaneously, the affected journalist-Shri Ranjit Sinha, Associate Editor, Arunachal Times was also requested to provide a detailed report of the incident.

Reply from Shri Ranjit Sinha

Shri Ranjit Sinha, Associate Editor, Arunachal Times, Itanagar vide his letter dated 8.8.2017 while expressing his gratitude for taking suo-motu cognizance regarding attack on him informed that he was assaulted on 7.7.2017 by four persons near heavily guarded Civil Secretariat in Itanagar when he was walking back home after work in office. He has further informed that the attack was so severe that he fell unconscious for some time before he managed to pick himself up and report to the ITBP personnel, guarding the Civil Secretariat. According to him, when the assaulters pushed him from behind, he had identified himself as a journalist of Arunachal Pradesh but this had no effect on them and they snatched all his belongings including mobile phone and cash. He has further informed that Itanagar police arrested four people on 9.7.2017 including two government officials, one a traffic wardens while another was Indian Reserve Battalion Constable for assaulting him. He also informed that earlier in 2012, he was also severely assaulted by unidentified people when he was on his way to home after night duty. He has stated that he is now on path to full recovery after being treated by doctors in Itanagar and Guwahati.

Report from Police Authorities

Dr. Guriqbal Singh Sindhu, IPS, Superintendent of Police, Crime PHQ, Itanagar vide communication No. PHQ/DIGP/SWR/CR-13(A)/17/234 dated 15.09.2017 addressed to the Under Secretary (Home), Government of Arunachal Pradesh a copy endorsed to the Council has forwarded a copy of report. It is stated in the report that

during the course of investigation all accused persons were arrested. Apparently, the snatched mobile phone, cash amounting to Rs. 590/- only and some documents of the complainant were recovered from their possession and released on zimma to the complainant. Meanwhile, MLC report of the victim/complainant has also been obtained from RKM Hospital in which EMO, Shri Bagang has opined nature of injury as minor injury.

It is further stated that the case has been submitted into charge sheet vide

Itanagar PS CS no. 205/17 dated 26.08.2017, U/s 392/323/34 IPC against all the accused persons before CJM court, Capital complex Yupla for trial.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 20.09.2017 at New Delhi. No one appeared on behalf of the complainant while on behalf of the respondent, Dr. A. Koan, IPS, S.P., Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh appeared before the Inquiry Committee.

The report was called for from the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, Mr. A.

Koan, Superintendent of Police appears and states that on the basis of report given by the concerned journalist, a case was registered and four persons have been apprehended and ultimately charge sheeted and they are facing trial in a Court of law. He states that the alleged crime had not taken place on account of any journalistic work of Shri Sinha, but it was a case of robbery simpliciter.

In view of aforesaid, the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to proceed in the

matter any further. The Inquiry Committee, accordingly, recommends for disposal of the complaint.

Held

The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and report of the Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the report of the Committee and Dispose of the matter.



Shri Mohan Nagpal, The Chief Secretary,

Sr. Journalist/News Editor, Government of Punjab,

Daily Pilot, Chandigarh.

Bhatinda (Punjab)

The Director,

Information & Public Relations

Department,

Government of Punjab,

Chandigarh.

Shri Kanwaljit Singh,

District Public Relations

Officer, Bhatinda (Punjab).

Adjudication

09/10/2017

This joint complaint dated 12.5.2017 has been filed by Shri Mohan Nagpal, Sr.

Journalist/News Editor and other journalists of Daily Pilot, Bhatinda (Punjab) against

Shri Kanwaljit Singh, District Public Relations Officer (DPRO), Bhatinda (Punjab) for

non-issuance of I-Cards. According to them, they all are working journalists at Bhatinda

and had been getting government facilities for collection of news through DPRO,

Bhatinda. The present DPRO, Bhatinda after taking the charge at Bhatinda has created

groupism among the journalists of his choice for some reason with the help of his

subordinate official including Mrs. Megha Mann, APRO and Shri Hans Raj, Office

Assistant. The complainants have further stated that under the pressure of trio

government officials, some fake journalists have been provided government I-Cards

whereas many working journalists those are actually in the field have been denied I-

Cards. The complainant has alleged that the DPRO and other officials are misguiding the

Director, Public Relations, Govt. of Punjab. They have further alleged that the DPRO by

issuing I-Cards to non-journalists and his henchmen has created a gang of blackmailers

and professional criminal. He has requested the Council to look into the matter and direct

Director, I&PRD, Punjab to call back all the I-Cards and these should be provided under

the supervision of a Committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner after verification of

genuineness of each journalist.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the respondents on 30.5.2017.

Written Statement

Shri Kamaljeet Paul, Information & Public Relations Officer, Chief Minister’s

Office, Punjab Civil Secretariat, Chandigarh (the then District Public Relations Officer,

Bhatinda) vide his written statement dated 28.6.2017 while denying the allegations

levelled by the complainants has submitted that the complainants had been asked to

present himself personally in the office along with requisite documents in support of their

claim for acquiring yellow card but despite several reminders they did not come. The

respondent further submitted that one of the complainants submitted the required

documents through his son in the office. The respondent also stated that the complainant

had a shady past and habitual of making fake complaints. According to the respondent, he

has no ill-will against the complainant and moreover it is the bounden duty as DPRO to

cultivate cordial relations with the media. On the contrary, the complainant is not only

arrogant and non-cooperative but also often flouts the ethics of journalism which is

evident from the fact that the complainant during Assembly Polls-2017 published a

baseless and factually incorrect news in order to browbeat a candidate of a particular

party and Election Commission of India had already register a complaint with the PCI in

this regard. The respondent has further submitted that the journalists like the complainant,

who resort to such cheap tactics of making false and unfounded complaints, should be

discouraged for filing such complaints to meet the ends of justice.

A copy of the written statement was forwarded to the complainant on 7.7.2017 for

information/counter comments.

Counter Comments

The complainant-Shri Mohan Nagpal, News Editor, Daily Pilot, Bhatinda vide his

counter comments dated 14.7.2017 while reiterating his complaint has stated that the

written statement of the respondent is wrong, vague, baseless and false as the respondent

is nobody to press him to furnish the documents or to ask to appear in person before him

as he is simply a DPRO and is not holding the charge of a court. The complainant has

alleged that the respondent is habitual of mud-slinging with the support of his gang of

criminals and always tries to cause losses to media men as he has done with him by

refusing cards. Denying the allegation of the respondent regarding publication of news

during the assembly elections, 2017, the complainant has submitted that all the news

items published by him with regard to activities of a MLA of ruling party were correct

and based on facts. The complainant has further submitted that on refusal of publication

of favourable news, under the pressure of ruling people, a complaint was sent to PCI but

these people could not dare to send its copy to him nor could dare to plead this complaint

before the PCI because the news were correct. He has requested the Council to take

necessary action in the matter.

A copy of the counter comments was forwarded to the respondents on 21.7.2017.

Further communication from complainant

The complainant addressed a letter dated 17.7.2017 to Hon’ble Chief Minister of

Punjab, along with an endorsement to Council, intimating that a litigation between him

and the respondent is pending before the Hon’ble Press Council of India and their office

is using the name of the Chief Minister of Punjab whereas litigation is pending in the

name of District Public Relations Officer, Bhatinda and their office name is being used to

influence the proceedings. He has prayed to transfer Shri Kamaljeet Paul, PRO from that

office in the interest of justice so that he could not influence the proceedings.



New Delhi. Shri Ajit Kanwal Singh, Deputy Director and Shri Kamaljeet Paul, IPRO,

DIPR, Punjab appeared on behalf of the respondent. There was no appearance on behalf

of the complainant.

Despite service of notice the complainant has not chosen to appear. The

complainant has filed an application for adjournment of the case. The Inquiry Committee

is not inclined to accede to his prayer.

The Inquiry Committee has perused the complaint and all the other connected

papers and finds no merit in the grievance of the complainant.


Held


Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the report of the Committee and Dismiss

the complaint.


Item No. 09 File No.13/27/17-18-PCI.


Shri Tarun Kumar, The Commissioner of Police, President, Delhi Police, International Council for Newspaper and New Delhi. Journalist (ICFNA), New Delhi

Adjudication 09.10.2017

Shri Hurbi Shakeel, Under Secretary, Vice-President’s Secretariat, New Delhi vide letter dated 27.3.2017, received in the Secretariat of the Council on 23.5.2017, forwarded complaint dated 14.3.2017 of Shri Tarun Kumar, President, International Council for Newspaper and Journalist (ICFNA), New Delhi for necessary action.

Shri Tarun Kumar, President, International Council for Newspaper and Journalist

(ICFNA) vide his complaint dated 14.3.2017 forwarded a copy of the news clipping

published in “Navbharat Times” issue dated 24.2.2017 under the caption “प�कारो ंस ेमोबाइल बंद करन ेऔर फोटो िडलीट करन ेको कहा – मीिडया स ेमारपीट करन ेका आरोप” reporting

that the several journalists and students are assaulted by the police during clashes at

Ramjas College, while covering the news on 22.2.2017. He has requested the Council to take necessary action.

No Reply

Notice for Reply Statement was issued to the Commissioner of Police, Delhi Police, New Delhi on 30.5.2017 but no reply has been received.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 20.09.2017 at New Delhi. Shri Madhur Verma, IPS, Deputy Commissioner of Police, PRO, Delhi Police appeared before the Inquiry Committee. The complainant was not present.

Shri Madhukar Verma states that the subject matter of this complaint is under consideration of High Court of Delhi. The Inquiry Committee is therefore not inclined to proceed with the case. The Deputy Commissioner of Police is, however, directed to provide the Order passed by the High Court of Delhi in this regard.

With the aforesaid direction, the Inquiry Committee recommends to drop the proceedings.

Held

The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and report of the Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the report of the Committee and Drops the proceeding.


Complainant Respondents Shri Anurag Mishra, The Chief Secretary,

Correspondent, Government of U.P., Lucknow

Dainik Aaj, Shahjahanpur (U.P.). Versus

The Secretary,

Home (Police) Department,

Government of U.P., Lucknow

The Director General of Police,

Uttar Pradesh Police, Lucknow


District Shahjahanpur (U.P.).


Shahjahanpur (U.P.).

Sh. Kamlesh Kumar Gupta @ Pappu,


Sh. Shivkumar Gupta @ Guddu,


Sh. Ravindra Kumar Gupta @ Vakil,

Shahjahanpur (U.P.)

Sh. Rajeev @ Raju,

Shahjahanpur (U.P.)

Sh. Rajesh Gupta,

Shahjahanpur (U.P.)

Sh. Sanjeev Gupta,

Shahjahanpur (U.P.)

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017 This complaint dated 18.4.2017 has been filed by Shri Anurag Mishra, Journalist, Dainik

Aaj, Shahjahanpur (U.P.) against the grain mafia for allegedly trying to kill him during

collection of news due to publication of critical writings. According to the complainant, he

worked with Amar Ujala newspaper till September, 2016 and now working as correspondent of

Dainik Aaj. He has published various news regarding irregularities of sale-purchase prevailing in

the grain centre due to which certain persons involved in such activities started threatening him.

The complainant further informed that on receiving information about visit of an officer

concerned in the Naveen Mandi Centre for inspection on 15.4.2017, he along with correspondent

of Dainik Hindustan-Shri Ajay Pratap Singh reached there for collection of news. The

complainant alleged that Shri Kamlesh Gupta also reached there along with his associates and

started beating him on gun-point. The complainant further alleged that the respondents tried to

strangle his throat with grain bag and also snatched Rs.1,500/-. The complainant also alleged

that Shri Kamlesh Gupta instructed his associates to kill him like journalist-Jagendra Singh by

pouring petrol on him but somehow he managed to escape. The complainant informed that

before attacking him, the attackers also made a video recording forcefully by showing rupees in

his hand. The complainant further informed that he filed an FIR against the attackers in the

Police Station-Tilhar on 27.4.2017 under Sections 147/148/149/323/504/506/392 IPC but the

inquiry is still pending. The complainant submitted that the attention of the police authorities and

administration was drawn through Gramin Patrakar Association but to no avail. While

apprehending danger to his life, he has requested the Council to take necessary action in the

matter.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the Government of U.P and others on

3.7.2017.

Reply of Superintendent of Police, Shahjahanpur

Shri Krishan Bahadur Singh, Superintendent of Police, Shahjahanpur vide his reply dated

9.8.2017 informed that the matter was investigated by the Circle Officer, Tilhar, Shahjahanpur

and it has been found that with regard to attack on the complainant, a case No.731/17 has been

registered in the Police Station-Tilhar on 27.4.2017 under Section 147/148/149/323/504/506/392

IPC against (1) Kamlesh Gupta @ Pappu (2) Shivkumar (3) Ravindra Gupta (4) Rajeev @ Raju

(5) Rajesh Gupta (6) Sanjeev Gupta and 06 other unknown persons. He has further informed that

the investigation of the case is being conducted by Shri Santosh Kumar, Sub-Inspector, Police

Station-Tilhar. He has also informed that the Investigating Officer has been directed to

investigate the case on merits at the earliest.

A copy of the reply was forwarded to the complainant on 18.8.2017.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 03.10.2017 at New

Delhi. Shri Anurag Mishra has appeared in person for the complainant, Ms. Savitri Pandey,

Counsel for respondent no.6 to 11has also appeared.

It is the allegation of the complainant that while he had gone to cover news regarding

procurement of wheat at various centres, he was manhandled by the grain mafia. It is the

allegation that for his critical writing in regard to the “irregularities of sale-purchase of wheat at

various centres” grain mafias are annoyed with him and on account thereof he was assaulted. A

report was called for from the Govt. and from the report of the Superintendent of Police,

Sahjahanpur, it is evident that case no. 731/17 was registered at the Police Station, Tilhar under

various Sections of the Indian Penal Code in relation to the incident.

Respondent no. 6 to 11, who have been described as grain mafia by the complainant, are

represented by their counsel and she states that on the basis of the report given by them, case has

also been registered against the complainant. According to the report of the Superintendent of

Police, the investigation is still pending. In the facts and circumstances of the case, the Inquiry

Committee directs that investigation in respect of the case filed by the complainant and against

him be concluded within a period of eight weeks. The Inquiry Committee, recommends for

disposal of the complaint with the aforesaid directions.

Held


dispose of the complaint with aforesaid directions.


Sl.No. 11 File No.13/243/16-17-PCI.


Sh. S.N. Shyam, The Chief Secretary,

Sr. Journalist/State President, Government of Bihar,

Bihar Press Men’s Union, Patna (Bihar)

Patna (Bihar).

The Secretary,

Bihar Education Department,

Patna (Bihar).

The Secretary,

Bihar School Examination Board,

Patna (Bihar).

Adjudication

Dated 09.10.2017

Shri S.N. Shyam, State President, Bihar Press Men’s Union, Patna (Bihar) vide his

complaint dated 18.2.2017 has alleged that Shri Anup Narayan Sinha, Secretary, Bihar

School Examination Board, Patna vide his Circular dated 4.2.2017 has completely

prohibited the entry of the media persons inside the examination centres during Bihar

Intermediate Examination-2017. According to the complainant, the impugned circular is

dictatorial and an attack on freedom of press. The complainant wrote to the Bihar School

Examination Board, Patna in this regard and has also requested the Council to take

necessary action in the matter.

No Reply

A Report on facts of the case was called for from the Government of Bihar on

20.3.2017 but no response has been received from either side.



New Delhi. Mr. Abhijit Kumar, Vice President, Bihar Press Men’s Union has appeared

on behalf of the complainant. No one has appeared on behalf of the respondent before the

Inquiry Committee.

Despite service of notice, nobody has chosen to appear for the respondent

Education Department or School Examination Board nor it has filed any reply. Mr.

Abhijit Kumar, Vice President, Bihar Press Men’s Union is present on behalf of the

complainant. It is the allegation of the complainant that Shri Anup Narayan Sinha,

Secretary, Bihar School Examination Board, Patna vide his Circular dated 04.02.2017

had completely prohibited the media to enter the examination centres during the Bihar

Intermediate Examination 2017. According to the complainant, the impugned Circular is

dictatorial and an attack on the freedom of the Press. The Inquiry Committee has

bestowed its consideration to the claim made by the complainant and is of the opinion

that the blanket order passed by the Secretary affects the freedom of the Press. It seems

that this Circular has been issued in the background of the coverage made by the media,

in the previous year, exposing the large scale unfair means adopted by the students in

various examinations. The Secretary of the Bihar School Examination Board would be

well advised to withdraw the said circular and not to issue such circulars in future, which

prohibit in totality coverage of the examinations centres during the examination.

The Inquiry Committee, accordingly, recommends for disposal of the complainant

with the aforesaid observation.

Held

The Press Council on consideration of records of the case and Report of the

Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the Committee and

decides to dispose of the complaint with observation.


Sl.No. 12 File No.13/20/17-18-PCI.


Shri Hariom Gaur, The Chief Secretary,

Bureau Chief, Government of Madhya Pradesh,

Nai Dunia, Bhopal (M.P.).

Sheopur (M.P.).


District Sheopur (M.P.).


Sheopur (M.P.)

Shri Lokesh Kumar Jangid,

Sub-Divisional Officer (Revenue)/SDM,

Vijapur, District Sheopur (M.P.).

Adjudication

Dated 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 13.5.2017 has been filed by Shri Hariom Gaur, Bureau

Chief, Nai Dunia, Sheopur (M.P.) against Shri Lokesh Kumar Jangid, Sub-Divisional

Officer (Revenue)/SDM, Vijapur, District Sheopur (M.P.) for allegedly threatening and

using unparliamentary language on Whatsapp due to publication of critical writings.

According to the complainant, he published news items under the captions “सवारन ेकी जगह

बबगाि◌ दी सर

त”” and “िसको ंपर बह रही गदगी, ख ◌े म◌े◌ं शोच जा रह◌े लोग” in his newspaper issues

dated 6.5.2017 and 7.5.2017 respectively. Annoyed over this, the respondent-Shri

Lokesh Kumar Jangid threatened him on 06.05.2017 over mobile to stop publishing news

against him and also made indecent comments against him on a Whatsapp Group on

7.5.2017. The complainant apprehends danger to his life and also fears his implication in

false case by the respondent. The complainant submitted that he complained to the State

and District Authorities in this regard but to no avail. He has requested the Council to

take necessary action in the matter.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the Government of Madhya Pradesh

and Shri Lokesh Kumar Jangid on 3.7.2017.

Written Statement of Govt. of Madhya Pradesh

Shri Fazal Mohammed, Under Secretary, General Administration Department,

Government of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal vide his reply dated 21.8.2017 has informed

that taking note of several news clippings and Whatsapp message (comments) sent by

Shri Lokesh Kumar Jangid, a Show-Cause Notice No.D-2/14/2017/6/1 dated 30.6.2017

was issued to Shri Lokesh Kumar Jangid, the then Sub-Divisional Officer

(Revenue)/SDM, Vijapur, District Sheopur for violating the Rule 3(1A), (ii) and (5) of

All India Services (Conduct) Rules, 1968. He has further informed that a reply dated

11.7.2017 has been received from Shri Jangid in this regard and the matter is under

investigation.

Report of the Suprintendent of Police, Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh

The Superintendent of Police, Sheopur has submitted a report dated 05.08.2017

and stated that Inquiry has been conducted by Sub-Dvisional Officer, Vijaypur who

submitted that respondent is an IAS officer and inquiry is being conducted by CEO,

District Panchayat, Sheopur. He also informed that respondent has been transferred as

SDM, Bhopal from Sheopur.



New Delhi. No one appeared on behalf of the complainant as well as of the respondent.

Despite service of notice, the complainant has not chosen to appear. The Inquiry

Committee has perused the complaint and the reply given by the respondent State

Government. It is the assertion of the complainant that he was threatened by the Sub-

Divisional Officer, Revenue/SDM, Vijapur for his critical writings. The respondent in his

Report has stated that the Show Cause Notice has been issued to the concerned officer

and he has submitted his reply, case further investigation is going on. In view of the reply

given by the State Government that the Show Cause Notice has been issued and matter is

pending under consideration, the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to proceed in the

matter any further.

The Inquiry Committee, accordingly, recommends for disposal of the complaint.

Held


Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the report of the Committee and dispose

of the complaint.



Sh. Om Prakash Baghel, The Chief Secretary,

Chief Editor, Government of U.P.,

Dunia Ek Nazar Mein, Lucknow.

Aligarh (U.P.).

The Secretary, Home (Police) Department,

Government of U.P.,

Lucknow.


Aligarh (U.P.).

The Sr. Superintendent of Police,

Aligarh (U.P.).

The Chief Development Officer,

Aligarh (U.P.)

Shri Dharmesh Kumar,

Village Development Officer,

Development Block-Lodha,

Aligarh (U.P.)

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 22.4.2017 has been filed by Shri Om Prakash Baghel, Chief

Editor, Dunia Ek Nazar Mein, Aligarh (U.P.) against Shri Dharmesh Kumar, Village

Development Officer, Block-Lodha, Aligarh (U.P.) for allegedly threatening him due to

publication of critical writing. According to the complainant, he published a news item

captioned “धमशे #ाम वव.अ. %&ाचार म' लल( होन ेके कारण सचना दने ेस ेकर रह ेआनाकानी” in his

newspaper issue dated 3.4.2017. Being annoyed with the news the respondent-Shri

Dharmesh Kumar has threatened him. The complainant drew the attention of the State

and District Administration on 22.4.2017 but to no avail. He has requested the Council to

take necessary action in the matter.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the Government of U.P. and Shri

Dharmesh Kumar on 5.6.2017.

Written Statement of Sh. Dharmesh Kumar

Shri Dharmesh Kumar, Village Development Officer, Block-Lodha, Aligarh vide

his written statement dated 20.6.2017 has denied the allegation and has submitted that

information regarding Gram Panchayats were sought by the complainant under Right to

Information Act. In response thereto while sending a copy of the order of the Hon’ble

Information Commissioner, the complainant was intimated that it is not possible to give

information in this regard because only Natural Persons are authorised to seek

information per under Right to Information Act, 2005. According to the respondent, the

complainant sought information under RTI Act earlier also but despite many requests he

did not deposit the required fee. The respondent alleged that the complainant is exciting

pressure on him in the garb of journalism and has also complained to the Hon’ble Chief

Minister in this regard. The matter was investigated by the Assistant Development

Officer (ISB) and during the investigation the allegations were found baseless and he

recommended to dismiss the complaint. While denying any meeting or conversation with

the complainant, the respondent has requested the Council to dismiss the complaint.

A copy of the written statement was forwarded to the complainant on 5.7.2017.

Counter Comments

The complainant vide counter comments dated 17.7.2017 while reiterating his

complaint has alleged that the written statement filed by the respondent-Shri Dharmesh

Kumar is false and motivated. The complainant stated that he sought approximately 2000

information under RTI Act from different departments but no one has demanded fee. The

complainant further stated that the respondent threatened him over mobile, therefore, his

statement that he never met him is totally false. The complainant also stated that on the

direction of the Chief Minister Office, the matter was investigated by the Assistant

Development Officer (ISB) but since the investigating Officer is also posted on the

respondent’s Block, the investigation could not be true.

A copy of the counter comments was forwarded to the respondents on 31.7.2017

for information.

Reply of Sr. Superintendent of Police, Aligarh

Shri Rajesh Kumar Pandey, Sr. Superintendent of Police, Aligarh communication

dated 16.09.2017 while forwarding report of Dr. Yashveer Singh, Superintendent of

Police, Janpad, Aligarh submitted that Shri Om Prakash Baghel mentioned in his

statement that he met Shri Dharmesh Kumar, Village Development Officer posted at

Development Khand Chandaos, Janpad, Aligarh on 31.08.2017 in office of State

Information Commission, Lucknow, U.P. He was misguided by the departmental

officials of Shri Dharmesh. Now, he has no complaint against Shri Dharmesh and does

not want to pursue the complaint. Therefore, no action is warranted in the matter.

Further comments of the complainant

The complainant vide letter dated 15.9.2017 received in the Sectt. on 19.9.2017

while reiterating the facts stated by the Sr. Superintendent of Police, Aligarh submitted

that no action may now be taken in the matter.



New Delhi. There was no appearance on behalf of the complainant. However, Shri

Rizwan Hussain, BDO, Aligarh on behalf of the District Collector and the Sr.

Superintendent of Police and Shri Dharmesh Kumar, Village Development Officer

appeared for the respondent side.

Despite service of notice, the complainant has not chosen to appear. It is the

allegation of the complainant that for his critical writing, the respondent Shri Dharmesh

Kumar, Village Development Officer had threatened him. Shri Dharmesh Kumar has filed

his written statement and denied the said allegation. He also appears before the Inquiry

Committee and states that he had never given any threat to the complainant nor will he give

in future. In view of aforesaid, the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to proceed any further.


Held



decides to dismiss the complaint.

Press Council of India Sl.No. 14 File No. 13/217/16-17-PCI

Shri Suman Kumar,

Editor,

Desh Ke Pehredaar,

Patna – 800 004,

Bihar

Shri Ravi Ranjan Kumar,

Desh Ke Pehredaar,

Patna – 800 004,

Bihar

Versus The Chief Secretary,

Government of Bihar,

Patna, Bihar

The Secretary,

Home (Police) Department,

Government of Bihar,

Patna, Bihar

The Director General of Police,

Bihar Police, Patna, Bihar


Samastipur, Bihar.

The Station House Officer,

P. S. Patori, Samastipur, Bihar.

Shri Ramnaresh Jha,

Officiating Principal,

Pariyojana Balika Uchch

Vidyalaya Chaksalem,

P.S. Patori, Samastipur, Bihar

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017

This complaint dated 17.1.2017 has been filed by S/Shri Suman Kumar, Editor

and Raviranjan Kumar, Photographer, Desh Ke Pehredar, Patna, Bihar against Shri

Ramnaresh Jha, officiating Principal, Pariyojna Balika UchhVidyalaya for manhandling,

snatching of camera, laptop, mobile and money and for using abusive language.

The complainants have stated that on coming to know from certain sources that

students are being fleeced by school authorities as they have been overcharging fee from

students for filling up examination form, both of them (complainants) went to school to

investigate and expose the administrative system. The complainants have stated that

when they started coverage of school premises, the Principal and other staff members

manhandled, snatched their camera, laptop, mobile, I.D. Card and also took away

15,000/- rupees. They have lodged an FIR on 12.01.2017 under section 341/323/379/504

of IPC but no action has so far been taken by the police.

Complainants submitted that earlier a Report captioned “*ू ल मा,लमक, छा� 2575

और लश.क के वल पा◌ा◌ँच” was published in their newspaper in its edition dated 3-9

January, 2017 with a sub caption “हररजन छात्र◌ाव◌ास म◌े◌ं लशफ◌्ट पटोरी थाना”, wherein

statement of SHO,

Shri Brijnandan Mehta was also published. Annoyed with the publication, the SHO and

the officiating Principal conspired to register false FIR against one of the complainants.

The complainants have drawn attention of the State and District Administration

vide their letters dated 11.01.2017 and 17.01.2017 respectively but no response has so far

been received from them. They have requested the Council to take necessary action

against the respondent.

Notices for Statement in Reply were issued to the respondents on 01.03.2017.

Response From Shri Ramnaresh Jha, Head master, Project Girl’s High School

Shri Ramnaresh Jha, Head master, Project Girl’s High School, Chaksalem vide his

response dated 16.03.2017 has stated that this matter is pending in Court.

Written Statement from Inspector General (Provisional), O/o Director General of Police,

Bihar

The Inspector General (Provisional) vide his Written Statement dated 7.4.2017 has

stated that the complainants have filed an FIR on 12.1.2017 under section

341/323/379/504/34 against the respondents for abusing, manhandling, snatching of

mobile, camera and laptop whereas the respondent filed an FIR on 13.01.2017 under

section 447/353/379/504/34 against the complainants for using un-parliamentary

language and asking for money. He has further stated that on inquiry it has been found

that on 11.12.2016 the complainants without permission started photo coverage of school

premises where examination forms were being filled up by the students. The teachers

present there objected to the coverage that led to quarrel between both the parties. He has

further stated that the school authorities alleged that complainants have asked for

advertisement from them and since no advertisement was given, they started coverage of

school premises.

Written Statement has been forwarded to the complainant on 12.04.2017.

Counter Comments

The complainant vide his letter dated 22.04.2017 while referring Council’s letter

dated 23.03.2017 has stated that he has not registered any case in court and further

attached a copy of representation made by Shri S.N. Shyam, State President, Bihar Press

Men’s Union to the D.G.P., Bihar, Patna. Referring to the Report dated 7.4.2017 of the

Inspector General (Provisional), O/o Director General of Police, Bihar, he stated that the

allegation levelled on Shri Suman Kumar are false and stated that the incident took place

on 11.01.2017 whereas Report mentions date as 11.12.2016. He has further stated that

the Report says that they have started coverage without permission. Was that area

prohibited for coverage? Was there any board cited “Prohibited”? What is the base of

D.S.P. and Inspector saying that Editor has made it his prestige issue? He has also stated

that inquiry was not conducted on facts which were required to be investigated. In the

name of filling up examination form, excessive amount is charged from the students. No

time-table has been maintained by the school. 75% attendance of students is also fake.

The teachers and other staff snatched camera, laptop etc. with the intention to make the

Report weak in the absence of evidences. He has further alleged that the inquiry has been

made to save opponents of Shri Suman Kumar which highlighted the corrupt character of

Deputy Police Officer, Patori and Police Chief, Patori. He requested the D.G.P., Bihar,

Patna to investigate the case from an independent and impartial agency.



New Delhi. Shri Suman Kumar, the complainant has appeared in person whereas there

was no presence on behalf of the respondent side.

It is the allegation of the complainant that while he went to the school to cover a

news, he was assaulted by the Principal of the School. A Report was called from the

Govt. and in the reply, sent by the Inspector General (Provision), shows that on the basis

of the Report given by the complainant, a case under Section 341/323/379 and 504/34

was registered for abusing, manhandling and for snatching of mobile, camera and laptop

against the accused persons. It has further been stated that on the basis of the Report

given by the Principal, case was registered against the complainant also and after

investigation, the police had submitted Charge-Sheet in both the cases under Section 504

of the Indian Penal Code as non-cognizable offence. Further, Report has been received

from the Inspector General (Provision) in which he has stated that allegations made

against the complainant have been found to be false and he has given directions for

taking steps for further investigation of the case and action against the erring police

officials. A prayer has been made on behalf of the respondent for adjournment of the

case. In the facts and circumstances of the case, the order which the Inquiry Committee

proposes to pass in the matter, no useful purpose shall be served by adjourning the case.

Accordingly, the prayer for adjournment is rejected.

The Inquiry Committee is satisfied with the action taken by the authorities and,

therefore, not inclined to proceed in the matter any further. The Inquiry Committee,

accordingly, recommends for disposal of the complaint.

Held



decides to dispose of the complaint.

Press Council of India SI.No 15 F.No.13/49/17-18-PCI.

Suo-motu cognizance with regard to “cash for coverage” to journalists for covering

the event of National Highways Authority of India at Angul, Odisha.

Adjudication

Dated 09.10.2017

Taking note of news report published in Tanta Ka Reporter’s issue dated 21.7.2017 captioned “Odisha journalists ‘bribed’ with Rs.500 each in Nitin Gadkari’s function, the Council took suo-motu cognizance and called for a Report from the NHAI and Govt. of Odisha on 25.7.2017.

It has been reported in the news item that “In an embarrassing development on

Friday, journalists in Odhisa were handed over Rs.500 each in closed envelopes as ‘bribe’ to cover the event of Union Transport Minister, Nitin Gadkari. The event, held at Anugul, was organised by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). Journalists covering the event were shocked to find Rs.500 as part of their press kits. Almost all Reporters reacted angrily at the blatant attempts to ‘buy’ them with money… Seeing the journalists react strongly, the organisers played it ‘we don’t know who did this game’. The official present at the function told Reporters that the incident will be investigated soon. Gadkari was in Anugul for the laying of foundation stone of a national highway project works. Earlier in the past, a similar incident of offering ‘bribe’ money to Reporters had taken place when the BJD MP, Pinaki Mishra faced such protest in Puri in 2014 after money was distributed inside press kits to Reporters covering the event. Hours after Janta Ka Reporter carried this story, the authorities were forced to respond to the revelation. ‘We have received the complaint and we are looking into the matter, Anugul SP said to PTI’. He also said that some NHAI officials have since been called for questioning. Meanwhile, the NHAI has also ordered an inquiry into the allegations that an effort was made to bribe media persons at the event. An official statement issued by the NHA said ‘anyone found guilty will be punished’. Odisha Commerce and Transport Minister Nrushingha Sahu condemned the incident. Both Gadkari and Dharmenra Pradhan attended the ‘Bhumi Pujan’ at Dussehra ground in Angul town today.”

The Editor of Janta Ka Reporter was also requested to provide a detailed Report

of the incident but received no response.

Reply of National Highways Authority of India

Shri D. Sarangi, CGM(Tech.)&RO, National Highways Authority of India (Ministry of Road Transport & Highways), Bhubaneswar (Odisha) vide his reply (email) dated 23.8.2017 has informed that foundation stone laying ceremony of three projects was conducted on 21.7.2017 at 3:00 p.m.. at Dasahara of Angul and in addition a Bhoomi Pujan ceremony of Bimitrapur-Brahmani bye-pass including by-pass at Belapahar was also held at 12 noon on the same day in Rourkela. The foundation stone was laid by Hon’ble Union Minister of Road, Transport, Highways& Shipping in presence of Hon’ble Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Hon’ble Union Minister of State, Petroleum & Natural Gas, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce & Transport, Govt. of Odisha besides other guests in the ceremony at Angul. According to him, the function was

organised by NHAI and members of print and electronic media were invited through District Information Bureau. Before arrival of Hon’ble Ministers, folders were distributed to the media persons containing a leaflet showing project details, writing pad and pen. He has further submitted that an allegation was made by some of the media persons that their folders contained an envelope with Rs.500/- note inside. He has stated that the subject incident was known to NHAI with the news in electronic and print media Reporting about the allegations. He has mentioned that the foundation stone laying ceremony was organised by NHAI, PIU-Sambalpur. NHAI is a very lean and thin organisation. For example, PD-Sambalpur has under him only one Dy. Manager and one Site Engineer, RO, Odisha was present in Rourkela for the function which was held at 12 noon. RO, Odisha accompanied the Hon’ble Ministers to Angul from Rourkela. To help PD, PIU-Sambalpur to organise the function smoothly, Regional Officer, Jharkhand, Officers from RO, Odisha and OPIU-Dhenkanal & Balasore were also present. The function at Angul was scheduled to be held at 1:30 p.m. which delayed and started at about 3:00 p.m. According to him, the leaflet containing project details were brought to Angul from Bhubaneswar in the morning of 21.7.2017 and the same were kept in the backside of the stage. There was movement of lot of people from Event Management Agency, contractors of the concerned projects, district administration, police and general public of the locality. There was time gap of around two hours from the time the folders were ready and actually distributed to media persons. He has further stated that nearly 10 minutes after distribution of folders, 5-7 media persons alleged that their folders contained Rs.500/- note. He has also stated that although nearly 40 folders were distributed and other members of the media did not make any reaction. It was enquired from some of the media persons that their folders did not contain any money. According to him, the matter as subsequently enquired from the NHAI officials, members of event management team and contractors’ team and all of them denied keeping money within the folder. He has stated that none of the NHAI official have issued any instructions or involved in any act directly/indirectly of giving money in the media folders. Due to Bhoomi Pujan at two places on the same day under Regional Office, Odisha, the manpower/resources were distributed which might have led to lesser levels of monitoring. He also stated that the Reported incident took place just before the arrival of Hon’ble Union Ministers, which apparently could not be apprised to senior officers to attend the spot to clarify the position that such things were not done by NHAI. According to him, the NHAI is a statutory formed under the Government, a responsible organisation and does not in any way, direct or indirect, supports any such act and has highest respect towards the institution and freedom of the press. He has further informed that the competent authority has already taken action to transfer the officer and the site engineer deputed to attend the media and the officers involved with the management of inaugural function are being warned for instances of inadequacy and mismanagement of the function to avoid any such possibility in future. He has also stated that the officials of NHAI have with al bonafide discharged their duties in organising the public functions with no intention to act in any way which is against the conduct and which in any way affects the freedom of press.

A copy of the reply was forwarded to Shri Krishna Prasad, Member, PCI on

4.9.2017.

Communication from Govt. of Odisha

Giving reference to the Council’s Notice dated 25.7.2017, Shri Lalit Das, IPS, Special Secretary to Govt. of Odisha, Home Department, Bhubaneswar has addressed a

letter dated 5.9.2017 to the (i) Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Information & Public Relations Department; (ii) The D.G. & I.G. of Police, Odisha, Cuttack; and (iii) Superintendent of Police, Anugul for filing the detailed Report in the matter. A copy of the same was endorsed to Press Council for information. No further response received from the Government.



New Delhi. Mr. Umesh Chandra Mohanti and Mr. P.K. Pattnayak Counsels for NHAI have appeared before the Inquiry Committee.

The Council took suo-motu cognizance in the case when it came to its notice that

in a function organized by the National Highways Authority of India, folders were distributed to media persons containing Rs. 500 currency note. The Council, prima facie, believed that it was “cash for coverage” and accordingly Report was called for from the National Highways Authority of India. The respondent National Highways Authority of India has come out with the story that folders remained unattended and a wild suggestion has been made that somebody might have put the currency notes in the folder. It is further the plea of National Highways Authority of India that only few journalists protested about the same. It is an admitted position that the folders given to the journalist were of the National Highways Authority of India and few of those folders contained currency notes. In view of the above, the Inquiry Committee is not prepared to accept the story propounded by the National Highways Authority of India that somebody else might have put the currency notes in the folders. As the money has been found in the folders of the National Highways Authority of India, it has to be assumed that the contents thereof where provided by them, unless the contrary is proved. There is no material to prove that somebody else put the currency notes in the folders excepting the ipse dixit of the respondent.

Once, the Inquiry Committee holds that the currency notes were put in the folders at the instance of the National Highways Authority of India, the Inquiry Committee cannot but disapprove such action and direct the Competent Authority to take further action in the matter so that such actions affecting the credibility of the press are not repeated in future.

The Inquiry committee, accordingly, upholds the allegation and recommends for

disposal of the case with the aforesaid direction.


Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the Committee and dispose of the complaint.


Sl.No. 16 F.No.13/203/16-17-PCI

Suo-motu cognizance with regard to murder of Shri Brijkishore Brajesh, journalist

of Hindi Daily in Samastipur, Bihar

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017

The Council took suo-moto cognizance of the matter, when it came across

the news item dated 04.01.2017 reporting that Shri Brijkishore Brajesh, Journalist

who also owned a brick kiln, was shot dead by unidentified assailants on

03.01.2017 at Samastipur (Bihar). A Report on facts of the case was called from

the Govt. of Bihar.

According to news Report, Police stated that personal enmity could be the

reason behind the murder. This was the third killing of a journalist in the State

since the murder of Hindustan’s Siwan journalist, Rajdev Ranjan last May. It was

further Reported that Bibhutipur Station House Officer (SHO) Sanjit Kumar said

the brother of the slain journalist was a member of CPI-M. He stated that Prima

facie, political rivalry appeared to be the reason behind the killing.

In this regard Council also received emails dated 04.01.2017 from Shri

Prabhash Chandra Sharma, Secretary cum Media in-charge (journalists Union of

Bihar) and from Mrs. Pushpa Pandeya, Chief Promoter, National Media

Confederation.

Reply of Superintendent of Police (Provision)

In response to the Council’s letter dated 05.01.2017, Police Superintendent

(Provision), Bihar vide fax dated 17.02.2017 intimated the Council that a case

dated 03.01.2017 is registered in Bibhutipur Police Station under Sections

320/120(B)/34 IPC and 27 Arms Act, on the written complaint of one Shri Shyam

Kishore Kamal. He submitted that a special team investigated the matter and

arrested five persons. It has been revealed in the investigation that land and brick

kiln distribution dispute was going on between the deceased and the opposite party

since 2014. He has further submitted that the proceedings are under process

against the five accused.


The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on

04.10.2017 at New Delhi. Shri Surender Verma, Coordinator, Press Freedom

Committee appeared in the matter.

The Council took suo-motu cognizance when it came to its notice that a

journalist was assaulted at Samastipur in the State of Bihar and called for Report

from the State Govt. The Report has been submitted in which it has been stated

that at the time when the murder took place, the deceased was not a journalist.

Further, he was assaulted on account of dispute with his family members. In that

view of the matter, the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to proceed in the matter

any further. However, it may be recorded that the person assaulted was not a

journalist at the relevant time and murder had not taken place on account of any

journalistic work. The Inquiry Committee, accordingly, recommends to drop the

proceeding.

Held


Inquiry Committee accepts reasons, findings and adopts the Report of the

Committee and decides to drop the proceeding in the matter.

PRESS COUNCIL OF INDIA

Item No. 17 F.No.13/11/17-18-PCI

Suo-motu cognizance pertaining to attack on a Reporter of Sakshi Daily, Shri A.D.Babu by

a gang at Nathavaram in Visakhapatnam Rural District of Andhra Pradesh.

ADJUDICATION

Dated: 09.10.2017

Taking note of the incident of attack by a gang on the Reporter, Sakshi Daily, Shri

A.D.Babu on 25.4.2017, the Press Council of India has called for a Report on facts from the

Govt. of Andhra Pradesh on 27.4.2017. No reply has been filed by the Govt. of Andhra

Pradesh.

Shri K.Amarnath, Member of Press Council of India informed that Shri A.D.Babu has

been writing against the illegal Latrite mining in areas in Visakhapatnam Rural district near

Nathavaram. One of the attackers, caught by the Police, has confessed that he is a rowdy

sheeter employed by the mining company. He has further stated that the attack was meant to

scare the Reporters so that they don’t mess up with the powerful mining mafia.

Recommendation of the Inquiry Committee The matter came up for hearing before the Inquiry Committee on 04.10.2017 at New

Delhi. Shri G.Krishna Mohan Rao, Political Editor appeared on behalf of Sakshi Daily

newspaper whereas Shri G.Sreekanth, Addl. Superintendent of Police,Vishakhapatnam

(Rural), Andhra Pradesh and Shri G. Ashok Kumar, Sub-Inspector of Police, appeared on

behalf of the respondent.

The Press Council of India initiated suo-motu proceeding when it came to its notice

that one Shri A.D. Babu, Reporter of Sakshi Daily had been attacked by a gang and called for

a Report from the State Govt. The Additional Superintendent of Police, Visakhapatnam

appears before the Inquiry Committee and states that crime no. 32/2017 was registered in

regard to incident of attack on the journalist. He further states that after investigation the

accused persons have been arrested and charge-sheet had been filed on 3.10.2017 before the

Jurisdictional Magistrate. In fact, the copy of the charge-sheet has been placed before the

Inquiry Committee today. In view of the aforesaid, the Inquiry Committee is not inclined to

proceed in the matter any further. However, in case, the concerned journalist is aggrieved by

the result of investigation, he shall have liberty to take recourse to the remedy available to

him in law. The Inquiry Committee recommends for disposal of the matter with aforesaid

observations.

Held


dispose of the matter.

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