SRINAGAR: The Press Council of India (PCI) has issued guidelines for journalists covering protests, urging them to maintain impartiality, display press identity cards and follow lawful police instructions.
Adopted on October 14, the guidelines advise journalists against participating in demonstrations, taking sides or provoking confrontations, while stressing the need to maintain distance from clashes and remain alert to potential threats.
The move follows the detention of several journalists covering recent protests in New Delhi against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. Press bodies alleged that reporters were detained despite displaying their press cards, with some having their phones and reporting equipment seized.
The council said the guidelines aim to improve journalists’ safety, promote responsible reporting and strengthen coordination with law enforcement agencies.
Journalists have been advised to carry identity cards issued by their media organisations or applicable PIB/DIP accreditation and keep them visible. They should also avoid arguments during tense situations and calmly establish their press credentials when required.
The guidelines recommend monitoring crowd behaviour, identifying escape routes and carrying emergency supplies, including first-aid kits, water, flashlights and protective equipment, depending on the assessed risk.
Media organisations should maintain regular contact with reporters in the field, track their locations and ensure emergency response arrangements. For planned demonstrations, they should coordinate with designated police officers or press liaison personnel to establish communication protocols and identify media staging areas.
The PCI has also called for information to be verified through multiple sources, with claims by protesters and government authorities subjected to equal scrutiny. Journalists should exercise caution when identifying minors, injured people and other vulnerable individuals.
