Una, May 24:
Anger is mounting across Una district following the registration of a police case against a senior journalist. On Saturday, journalists from across the district, along with members of various social organizations, gathered at the Municipal Park in Una to protest what they called a targeted and unjust action.
Journalist associations, standing in solidarity, unanimously demanded that the FIR be immediately withdrawn. Former Zila Parishad Vice President and senior journalist Krishanpal Sharma stated, “We stand with the truth. If journalism is a crime, we are all ready to face the consequences. This FIR is clearly motivated by malice and must be scrapped at once.”
Journalist Jogendra Dev Arya added, “Attempts to intimidate and silence the press will not be tolerated. Trying to suppress the truth in this manner is a direct threat to democratic values.” Fellow journalist Anil Thakur called the case deeply unfortunate and reaffirmed that media professionals across the district are united in support of their colleague. He warned that if the FIR is not withdrawn promptly, the agitation could spread statewide across Himachal Pradesh, with full responsibility falling on the government, administration, and police department.
The incident has triggered widespread unrest among local media circles. On Saturday, a delegation of journalists met with Deputy Commissioner Jatin Lal to demand a fair and impartial investigation. The DC assured the delegation that the matter would be investigated thoroughly and without bias.
“Journalists are the fourth pillar of democracy. It is our duty to safeguard their freedom and ensure their safety. If a false case has indeed been filed, justice will be served,” Jatin Lal said.