FIR Lodged Against TV Reporter for BJP Leader Protest Coverage in UP

Updated: Thursday, July 4, 2024, 23:21 [IST]

An FIR has been filed against a television reporter for his coverage of a sit-in protest by a senior BJP leader and his supporters at the camp office of SP Kanpur Dehat. The incident occurred a few days after the parliamentary polls, according to an official.

TV Reporter Charged Over BJP Protest — Representative image

The Akbarpur police have charged the reporter, Vikas Dhiman, with defamation. Sub-inspector Rajneesh Kumar Verma lodged the FIR on June 27, and an investigation is now underway.

Defamation Charges and Investigation

District Police Chief BBGTS Murthy stated that the news was published under the title "Yogi sarkar ke mantri ke pati aur purva sansad ki nahi sun rahi police" (UP Police is not listening to former MP whose wife is a state minister in the Yogi government). This allegedly tarnished the image of the SP.

The FIR mentions that UP Minister Pratibha Shukla's husband, Anil Shukla Warsi, a former MP, staged a dharna at the SP Kanpur Dehat camp after the officer reportedly refused to meet him. The complaint notes that the SP eventually came out of his office, took the BJP leader inside, and had breakfast with tea.

Reporter’s Response

Dhiman defended his actions, stating he was fulfilling his duty as a journalist by covering the protest. He argued that reporting on such events is a media responsibility and not a crime.

Dhiman further claimed that the police's decision to file an FIR related to his coverage was an attempt to intimidate the media. He emphasised that this act was part of broader efforts to suppress journalistic freedom.

The case has sparked discussions about press freedom and the role of media in covering political events. The investigation will determine whether Dhiman's reporting constituted defamation or if it was within his rights as a journalist.

The outcome of this case could have significant implications for media practices and press freedom in India. It remains to be seen how authorities will balance these concerns with maintaining public order and protecting reputations.