Srinagar, Oct 31, KDC: Taking serious note of increasing complaints regarding misuse of media credentials and impersonation by unauthorised individuals, the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Jammu and Kashmir, has issued strict directions to all District Information Officers (DIOs) in Kashmir Division to enhance vigilance, monitoring, and reporting of such cases.
In an official circular issued by the Joint Director Information, Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, a copy of which lies with Srinagar-based news-gathering agency Kashmir Dot Com, the department highlighted that several individuals without any formal accreditation or authorization have been found posing as journalists or correspondents of media organisations. These individuals, the circular said, have allegedly misused the name of media for blackmail, extortion, coercion of officials, and circulation of defamatory or unverified material against public institutions and officers.
“It has been observed that certain persons have been apprehended and booked for extortion and misuse of media identity, which underscores the seriousness of this matter,” the communication stated.
To address the issue, all DIOs have been directed to maintain a verified list of accredited and bona fide media persons operating within their jurisdictions, in coordination with the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) and media houses. They have also been asked to ensure that all press releases, media invites, and briefings are shared only with recognized journalists through official channels.
The circular further directs DIOs to immediately report any person or entity misusing media credentials or indulging in coercion or defamation, and to coordinate with the respective Deputy Commissioners and police authorities for prompt legal and administrative action.
Additionally, district-level offices have been advised to verify credentials before granting access or sharing official information with anyone claiming to represent a media outlet. DIOs are required to submit periodic vigilance reports to the Joint Director’s office, detailing incidents, field inputs, and preventive measures taken.
The circular also urges editors and media houses to exercise due diligence while engaging correspondents, freelancers, or stringers, ensuring they are qualified, credible, and properly authorized. Editors have been advised to take disciplinary and legal action against representatives found indulging in unethical or coercive practices, and to publicly disassociate from individuals misusing their organization’s name or credentials.
Emphasizing adherence to ethical journalism, the department reminded all stakeholders to uphold the journalistic code of ethics prescribed by the Press Council of India and the DIPR accreditation guidelines.
The circular has also been shared with all Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) across the Kashmir Division for coordinated vigilance and enforcement. (KDC)
