The Chandigarh Press Club submits memorandum to draw the attention of the Hon’ble Governor to the increasingly disturbing situation concerning press freedom in the state of Punjab.

Over the past several months, journalists and media organisations have faced repeated actions that undermine their constitutional right to free speech and expression and obstruct their ability to perform professional duties without fear or intimidation.

KEY ISSUES OF CONCERN : 

Registration of FIRs Against Journalists and YouTubers

FIRs have recently been registered against journalists from Bathinda and YouTubers from Ludhiana for reporting on the alleged misuse of the official helicopter of the Chief Minister of Punjab.

Even if the government believes the reports to be factually incorrect, there exist established democratic and legal mechanisms to address such issues—such as issuing clarifications, rebuttals, or placing factual information in the public domain. Resorting to criminal proceedings against journalists creates a chilling effect and sets a dangerous precedent.

The Chandigarh Press Club also urges that the Governor to step in and seek transparency from the Punjab Government about not just the helicopter usage but also insists on public accountability in use of public funds, instead of criminalising reportage.

Disruption of Newspaper Distribution

In November last year, vehicles carrying newspapers were stopped across several parts of Punjab, severely disrupting newspaper distribution. This directly interfered with the public’s right to information and amounted to an indirect censorship of the print media.

Suspension of Social Media Handles

The suspension of social media accounts of various journalists and media organisations has further restricted the dissemination of news and views.

Social media today is an essential platform for journalistic work, and arbitrary action against such platforms raises serious concerns about freedom of expression.

Appeal for Intervention

In view of the above, the Chandigarh Press Club humbly urges the Hon’ble Governor of Punjab to: Intervene to protect press freedom in Punjab.

Recommend the withdrawal and quashing of FIRs registered against journalists and digital media practitioners for their professional work.

Issue appropriate directions to ensure that journalists are able to perform their duties without intimidation, coercion, or fear of reprisal, now and in the future.

A free and independent media is the cornerstone of democracy. Any attempt to silence or intimidate journalists not only weakens democratic institutions but also erodes public trust.

The Chandigarh Press Club remains committed to advocating for media rights and seeks the Hon’ble Governor’s timely intervention to uphold constitutional values and democratic principles, said Mr. Saurabh Duggal and  Rajesh Dhall, President and Secretary General of Chandigarh Press Club, respectively.