IAS Officer Threatens Journalist Over Protest Reporting
A retired IAS officer in Assam, Hitesh Dev Sarma, has been accused of threatening journalist Rana Deka over a news report concerning a protest linked to Sarma's son, a police officer. This incident sheds light on the critical issue of press freedom in India and the potential dangers faced by journalists when covering sensitive topics.
The FIR was registered at the Pathshala police station after Deka reported that Sarma called him to express his anger over the coverage of a violent protest outside Baksa district jail. The incident occurred when police were moving five individuals arrested in connection with the death of singer Zubeen Garg. Deka and his colleagues documented the protest, which included aggressive actions by police personnel, drawing Sarma's ire.
Sarma allegedly accused Deka of using "morphed videos" to tarnish his son's reputation. In a concerning turn of events, Deka claimed that Sarma threatened him with physical harm. The retired officer reportedly suggested that Deka could be harmed by a speeding vehicle and extended the threat to his eight-year-old son, raising serious safety concerns.
This situation not only highlights the challenges faced by journalists in India but also questions the accountability of public officials. Deka has taken steps to protect himself, lodging a complaint and providing audio evidence of the threatening conversation to the police. The Bajali police have since requested Deka to provide a statement regarding the incident.
The implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved, emphasizing the broader climate of fear that journalists may experience when reporting on powerful figures or sensitive issues. As the media plays a crucial role in democracy, incidents like these underline the importance of ensuring the safety and freedom of the press in India.
The incident remains under investigation, with police expected to issue a notice to Sarma to record his version of events. This case is a stark reminder of the need for robust protections for journalists and the crucial role they play in society.
