Srinagar, Oct 23 :
In a candid admission that underscores the growing unease within the administration, a legislator from the ruling National Conference, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the Omar Abdullah-led government has “no effective control” over the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR).
The legislator’s remarks came in response to growing criticism from senior journalists who were denied entry to cover the ongoing Assembly session in Jammu. “We don’t have any say in the Information Department,” the legislator admitted. “It’s unfortunate that despite being in government, we are unable to address these grievances.”
Several senior journalists, who have long covered Assembly proceedings, were denied accreditation or passes this session, prompting outrage within the press community. “Even after elections, it is still Raj Bhavan calling the shots. The DIPR is functioning as if nothing has changed,” said a veteran journalist who was among those barred from attending.
The legislator, expressing regret, said he felt helpless over the situation. “I am sorry, but I can’t do anything. The control still lies elsewhere,” he was quoted as saying by the news ageny KNT.
Journalists alleged that the selective issuance of Assembly passes was aimed at sidelining independent voices and restricting press freedom. “We challenge the administration to show a single valid reason for denying entry to journalists who have been covering the legislature for decades,” said one of the aggrieved media professionals.
The issue has reignited debate over the autonomy of Jammu and Kashmir’s institutions post-elections. “Till statehood is restored, we remain powerless. We are functioning like slaves,” another legislator remarked bluntly, reflecting a sense of frustration among both lawmakers and journalists.
Ironically, all the media bodies and different associations are silent over the issue, knowing well that they will face consequences.
When contacted, Muhammad Salim Pandit, President Press Club of Kashmir, said that it is Ghulam Jeelani, the Information employee who is creating the misunderstanding between the journalists and the government. He said CID has nothing to do with it, but the said employee is defaming not only the LG Government but the name of the Journalist fraternity as well for his personal interests better known to the authorities. [KNT]