Editors Guild Intervenes Over FIRs Against Media, Citing Threat to Press Freedom in Andhra Pradesh
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The Editors Guild of India (EGI) has expressed serious concern over what it described as disturbing developments in Andhra Pradesh regarding the treatment of the press by the police.
Over the past few days, reports have surfaced about a series of criminal cases being filed in different police stations against the Telugu daily Sakshi. In one notable instance, a case was registered against the newspaper after it covered a press conference held by a political leader—an event that was also reported by several other media outlets. However, according to the Editor of Sakshi, only his organisation was singled out for police action, despite the coverage being part of routine journalistic activity.
The Guild noted that such selective application of criminal law against one media outlet points to an apparent overreach by the police. The statement said that targeting Sakshi alone raises troubling questions about press freedom and the independence of journalism in the state.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights of the press, the Editors Guild underlined that it has always stood for both press freedom and professional journalism standards. While urging media organisations to continue adhering to principles of fairness and accuracy in reporting, the Guild reiterated that law enforcement agencies must not use criminal provisions to stifle the functioning of the media.
In a letter addressed to state authorities, the signatories expressed concern over what they described as “frivolous or selective criminal complaints” being filed against journalists and publications. They emphasized that such actions risk undermining the constitutional guarantees of free expression and could foster an atmosphere of fear and intimidation within the press.
“The conduct of the police must reflect professionalism and impartiality,” the letter stated, warning that any perception of vindictiveness could erode public trust and compromise the media’s ability to operate independently.
The appeal called for urgent steps to ensure that criminal laws are not weaponized to suppress reporting done in the public interest. It also stressed the importance of maintaining an environment where journalists can carry out their responsibilities without fear of reprisal.
The letter concludes with a call to uphold democratic values and protect the press as a vital pillar of accountability and transparency.
