Srinagar, Nov 4 (JKNS): Jammu and Kashmir Accredited Journalists Association (JAKAJA) has welcomed the decision of the Union Territory administration to curb the misuse of Media Identity and strengthen the Credibility of Journalism.
In a statement, Ashwani Kumar, President, The Jammu and Kashmir Accredited Journalists Association (JKAJA) as per news agency JKNS, appreciated the recent circular issued by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Kashmir Division, aimed at curbing the growing menace of unverified individuals posing as journalists and misusing the name of media for blackmail, extortion, and defamation.
Earlier, the issue of “fake journalists” was discussed during a recent high-level review meeting in Srinagar.
During the meeting, the government directed all Deputy Commissioners and SSPs to take concrete steps to identify such elements and weed them out from the system.
The issue of the mushrooming of fake journalists was also highlighted during the recent Assembly session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
Ashwani Kumar also observed that this timely and necessary directive reflects the government’s seriousness in addressing a long-pending issue raised by genuine members of the media fraternity. The presence of unscrupulous elements operating without accreditation or authorisation has not only tarnished the image of responsible journalism but has also endangered the credibility and safety of genuine journalists in the field.
He further said that the measures outlined in the circular—such as maintaining a verified list of accredited and bona fide working journalists, restricting official communication to recognized media persons, and taking coordinated legal action against impostors—are practical steps that will help restore public confidence in the media profession.
The association also welcomed the call for due diligence by editors and owners of media houses in engaging correspondents, freelancers, and stringers. It urged all media organisations to strictly adhere to the ethical standards prescribed by the Press Council of India and the DIPR accreditation guidelines.
The Association reiterates its commitment to promoting ethical journalism and will fully cooperate with the law enforcement agencies in implementing the safeguards mentioned in the circular. This initiative will go a long way in protecting the integrity of journalism and ensuring that the voice of the media remains credible, responsible, and accountable. (JKNS)
