Following a directive from the Department of Information, Jammu and Kashmir, officials in various districts have sought details on the background of journalists working in the district — including salary slips for the last six months.
On October 31, citing “repeated complaints” from field officers, the Joint Director, Information, Kashmir, directed all district information officers (DIO) to “exercise heightened vigilance” and regularly update a “verified list of accredited, authorised and bona fide media persons operating within the district”.
The order also sought to keep “a close watch and immediately report any person or entity misusing media credentials, indulging in coercion, or attempting to malign officials or institutions or private individuals for personal or financial gain”.
DIOs have also been directed to work closely with deputy commissioners and police authorities “wherever such instances are reported, for coordinated legal and administrative action and provide full factual details to this office without delay”.
In the order from the Shopian DIO, officials sought a list of details from reporters in their jurisdiction, including affiliation or an appointment letter from the organisation, salary statement, academic qualification certificates, and Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube links to their work. Officials told The Indian Express that similar orders have been issued in Baramulla and Bandipore so far, and “similar action is expected in all districts”.
In Kupwara, the DIO sought the same details in an order issued November 3. The notice detailed that the move “aims to protect the sanctity of journalism”, curbing the growing “menace of fake journalists”, and creating a transparent system for bona fide media professionals to operate in the district. It also stated that only those media persons who are “duly validated and authenticated” by the DIO’s office will be allowed to attend official government functions, press conferences, and to cover visits of VIPs within the district.
Additionally, all DIOs have been asked to furnish “a periodical vigilance note” highlighting any such incidents, field inputs, and preventive measures taken.
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Information officials deemed the step “necessary” with the growth in social media platforms for news and the reach of digital platforms that are locally trusted. Director, Information, Nitish Rajora could not be reached for a comment.
