pci-decries-force-used-on-uni-journalists-during-office-sealing

The Press Club of India on Saturday condemned the alleged “manhandling” of journalists during the sealing of the United News of India (UNI) premises in New Delhi, expressing “deep shock” over the use of force by security personnel.

 

In a strongly worded statement, the PCI said several journalists working at UNI claimed they were physically removed from their workplace by personnel of the Delhi Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) during the operation carried out on Friday evening. The journalists alleged they were not even allowed to collect their personal belongings before being evicted.

 

“The PCI expresses deep shock at the manhandling of journalists while at work at the United News of India premises at 9, Rafi Marg, New Delhi, by police last evening following a court order regarding a land dispute,” the statement said.

 

The Club condemned in the “strongest possible” terms what it described as “highhandedness unleashed on the journalists, including women workers,” stressing that such actions undermine the dignity and safety of media professionals.

Also read: Delhi Police seals news agency UNI's office, cites HC order

 

Highlighting constitutional protections, the PCI emphasised that the right to work is a fundamental aspect of democratic functioning and stands firmly with the affected journalists. It noted that those present at the premises had informed authorities that the management had not yet communicated any directive to vacate the office despite the court order.

 

The PCI said authorities should have exercised restraint in handling the situation, particularly given the presence of working journalists. It called for accountability, urging that prompt action be taken against those responsible for the alleged misconduct.

 

“PCI urges the authorities to take prompt action against whoever was responsible for such misconduct, as it would help instil confidence within the journalist fraternity that the right to work of the press is an important part of a democracy,” the statement added.

 

The UNI premises were sealed by the Land and Development Office (L&DO) under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs following a high court order linked to a land dispute. The development has sparked concern within media circles, with UNI terming the action an “unprecedented atrocity” and an “attack on freedom of media”.