Intimidation of Journalists in Jammu and Kashmir: A Growing Concern

In January 2026, police in Jammu and Kashmir summoned multiple journalists for questioning regarding their reporting on police activities related to local mosques. Notably, Bashaarat Masood, an assistant editor with The Indian Express, was called to the Cyber Police Station in Srinagar on four occasions. During these visits, he was pressured to sign a bond promising not to "disturb peace," a demand he refused, citing the lack of clarity regarding any alleged wrongdoing. Similarly, Ashiq Hussain, a correspondent for the Hindustan Times, was also summoned but did not comply, raising concerns about the motivations behind these police actions.

Indian police summon journalists in Kashmir over routine reportingContinual Attempt to silence IIOJK Press:’: Four Kashmiri journalists get Indian police summons

The situation for journalists in Jammu and Kashmir has deteriorated significantly since the Indian government revoked the region's special status in August 2019. This change led to increased restrictions on media coverage, with authorities imposing rules that limit how the region is reported. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has highlighted a pattern of intimidation against the media in the area, asserting that the recent police summons are part of broader efforts to suppress independent journalism.

Continual Attempt to silence IIOJK Press:’: Four Kashmiri journalists get Indian police summons

Political leaders and civil society groups have condemned the police's actions. Mehbooba Mufti, president of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), criticized the intimidation tactics, stating that such actions undermine press freedom. Other political figures, including Congress leader Tariq Hameed Karra and National Conference spokesperson Tahir Sayeed, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for transparency and protection for journalists. The Press Club of Kashmir has also voiced concerns, stating that the summoning of journalists represents a deliberate attempt to stifle independent reporting.

Crackdown on press freedom condemned as IIOJK media comes under siege

Critics argue that the police's approach to questioning journalists is not only an infringement on press freedom but also a tactic aimed at instilling fear among reporters. M.Y. Tarigami, a leader from the Communist Party of India-Marxist, described the police's actions as a "new low," questioning the rationale behind summoning journalists for factual reporting. This sentiment is echoed by veteran journalist Nirupama Subramanian, who noted that the lack of pushback from media houses emboldens authorities to continue such practices.

Crackdown on press freedom condemned as IIOJK media comes under siege

The ongoing intimidation of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir reflects a troubling trend towards increased state control over the press. Since 2019, the region has been characterized as one of the most restrictive environments for journalists in India, with numerous instances of harassment, detentions, and legal actions against reporters. Rights groups have documented a significant rise in self-censorship among journalists, who fear reprisals for their work.

Continual Attempt to silence IIOJK Press:’: Four Kashmiri journalists get Indian police summons

As the situation continues to evolve, there is a pressing need for media organizations to support their journalists in Jammu and Kashmir. The collective silence surrounding these incidents may further embolden authorities to target independent voices. The call for a united front in defense of press freedom is crucial, as the ability to report freely is fundamental to a functioning democracy.

Crackdown on press freedom condemned as IIOJK media comes under siege

• “Using police powers to summon journalists over their legitimate reporting is part of a pattern of intimidation against the media in Jammu and Kashmir,” — Kunal Majumder, CPJ Asia-Pacific Program Coordinator

Indian police summon journalists in Kashmir over routine reporting

• “National Conference spokesperson Tahir Sayeed said a free press is the cornerstone of any democracy and attempts to silence journalists through intimidation must be resisted.” — Tahir Sayeed, National Conference Spokesperson

Crackdown on press freedom condemned as IIOJK media comes under siege

• “If they can summon the correspondent of such a big masthead and face no pushback, imagine our situation,” — Anonymous Kashmiri Journalist

Continual Attempt to silence IIOJK Press:’: Four Kashmiri journalists get Indian police summons