Hyderabad women journalists gathered at the Ambedkar statue on Tank Bund on Monday evening to protest alleged assaults, sexual harassment and unlawful detention of women reporters covering demonstrations in New Delhi and other cities. The protesters demanded the release of detained journalists, withdrawal of cases against them and an independent inquiry into police conduct.
The journalists carried placards calling for an end to the suppression of media freedom and declaring that fear would not silence reporters. In a statement, they alleged that police personnel and men in civilian clothes attacked journalists even after being told that they were members of the press.
The allegations relate to reporters covering protests against the special intensive revision of electoral rolls and demonstrations demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. According to the protesters, journalists faced intimidation and obstruction while reporting from these public events.
The statement also referred to allegations that police sexually harassed three women journalists. The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter and sought a detailed report from the Delhi Police Commissioner within two weeks. The NHRC action means the allegations have entered a formal rights-review process, but the supplied report does not provide the findings of any inquiry.
The Hyderabad protesters also cited directions issued by the Supreme Court on October 11 against unlawful detentions. They said attacks on journalists continued despite assurances given to the court that reporters and other professionals would not be obstructed while carrying out their work.
The protesters described the alleged attacks as violations of press freedom and the dignity and safety of women. They also condemned alleged assaults on women who had attended the demonstrations. Their demands included allowing journalists to cover public events without threats or detention and taking action against those responsible for any established violations.
The protest places the conduct of law-enforcement agencies at public demonstrations under scrutiny. It also highlights the operational risks faced by reporters working in crowded or tense public spaces, where distinguishing journalists from other participants and ensuring lawful access can directly affect the public record of an event. The next formal development is expected from the Delhi Police Commissioner’s response to the NHRC within the two-week deadline.
