A group of Indian journalists has condemned the denial of press rights to a prominent editor, sparking outrage and calls for intervention from a UK press freedom alliance. The editor, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, was reportedly barred from accessing court proceedings and denied accreditation, a move critics say undermines the Fourth Estate in the world’s largest democracy.
The Indian Journalists’ Union (IJU) issued a statement on Monday describing the action as “a dangerous precedent that threatens the independence of the press.” The union said the editor, known for investigative reporting on government contracts, had been repeatedly sidelined since filing reports critical of state infrastructure projects.
“This is not just about one person. It is about the right of every journalist to report without fear,” said Priya Sharma, IJU general secretary. “When accreditation is weaponised, the public loses its window into governance.”
The UK-based International Press Freedom Alliance (IPFA) has called on the Indian government to reverse the decision. In a letter to the Indian High Commission in London, IPFA chair Lord Michael Hastings said: “The denial of press credentials is a silencing tactic. We urge India to uphold its constitutional guarantees of free speech and press freedom.”
The controversy comes amid a broader clampdown on critical media in India. Reporters Without Borders ranks India 150th out of 180 countries in its World Press Freedom Index, a drop of 8 places since 2021. Journalists covering protests, corruption, and religious tensions have faced arrests, raids, and digital surveillance.
But the Narendra Modi government has defended its record, pointing to a vibrant media landscape and strong legal protections. “India remains a beacon of democracy,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. “Accreditation processes follow standard procedures, and appeals are available.”
However, critics argue such procedures are increasingly opaque. The editor in question, who has worked for two decades, says no reason was given for the denial. “I was simply told my application was ‘not found suitable’,” he told reporters in a phone interview. “There is no avenue for appeal beyond bureaucratic silence.”
The case has reignited debate over the government’s proposed “Press Council Amendment Bill”, which would give the state more power to regulate digital news platforms. Opponents say it could be used to further restrict dissent.
For now, the UK alliance is urging diplomatic pressure. “The UK has a historical kinship with Indian journalism,” Lord Hastings said. “We cannot remain silent when the free press is shackled.”
As the editor fights for reinstatement, the silence from industry peers has been telling. Many fear retaliation. “We stand in solidarity,” said a senior journalist from a major daily, speaking on condition of anonymity. “But in private, we wonder: who is next?”
