A policeman in Kufri, Himachal Pradesh, is facing disciplinary action after allegedly manhandling a journalist, prompting swift condemnation and intervention from the Chief Minister to uphold press freedom.
Disciplinary action has been initiated against a policeman for allegedly manhandling a senior journalist in Kufri, about 20 kilometres away from Shimla.
The incident occurred on Sunday when the policeman allegedly obstructed the journalist from covering a news event and asked him to leave the spot.
However, the policeman retreated from the spot when the journalist resisted and questioned him for his action. The incident was captured on the camera, which also went viral on social media platforms.
The video drew criticism from people and the media fraternity alike, who questioned the policeman's action.
A delegation of media persons met Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday and expressed displeasure over the incident. The journalist demanded stern action against the said policeman.
The chief minister, after hearing their grievances, assured stern action against the accused and also assured the media persons that such incidents would not be allowed to be repeated in the future.
Following Sukhu's intervention, the police took disciplinary action against the accused.
Shimla Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Gaurav Singh expressed regret over the incident and said that the police value the important role of the media in providing information to the people and respect the freedom of the press.
He said that the police acknowledge that responsible journalism is essential for maintaining public trust and awareness and it was equally important for both police personnel and media representatives to work with mutual respect, patience and professionalism while performing their duties.