Press Freedom Under Threat: Veteran Journalist Rakesh Kumar Commends Press Club’s Stand on Attacks Against Journalists in Madhya Pradesh

Following the recent Delhi High Court order directing police protection for Amar Kant Singh Chauhan, the Bhind bureau chief of Swaraj Express, senior journalist Rakesh Kumar has praised the Press Club of India for its strong and courageous stand in defense of journalists facing intimidation and violence in Madhya Pradesh.

With over three decades of experience in Indian journalism, Kumar expressed deep concern over the growing trend of harassment against journalists who expose uncomfortable truths. “The Press Club’s prompt and bold support in these serious cases has played a critical role in drawing national attention. Their timely intervention for Chauhan and others shows that the journalistic community will not stay silent in the face of injustice,” he said.

Commenting on the situation in Madhya Pradesh, Kumar added, “What’s happening there is deeply alarming. Journalists are being summoned, beaten, stripped, and forced to give false statements. This is not law enforcement—it’s a blatant misuse of power. In such a hostile climate, the backing of the Press Club is not just moral support, but a vital reminder that press solidarity is our strongest shield.”

The High Court’s intervention came after Chauhan reported threats to his life due to his investigative reporting on illegal sand mining and alleged police collusion, forcing him to flee the state. Other journalists—such as Dharmendra Ojha (News 24), Shashikant Goyal (Bejod Ratna), and Preetam Singh (NTV Bharat)—have faced similar intimidation, physical attacks, and coercion to withdraw their statements.

Kumar called on the media fraternity to remain united and vigilant: “We must demand accountability and push for institutional safeguards like a comprehensive Journalist Protection Law. This isn’t just about one journalist or one state—it’s a fight to protect the very foundation of our democracy.”

He urged media organizations, civil society, and constitutional bodies to closely monitor the situation in Madhya Pradesh and ensure that those abusing their power are held accountable.