Indian Journalists Union Condemns Attacks on Journalists in Assam, Demands Justice and Protection for Media Personnel

KalimNews, July 11, 2025, New Delhi: The Indian Journalists Union (IJU), standing in solidarity with the Journalists Union of Assam, has strongly condemned the recent wave of brutal attacks on journalists in the northeastern state. The latest assaults on media personnel include the shocking attack on television journalist Madhurjya Saikia in Silapathar, Dhemaji, and the assault on journalists Bimaljyoti Nath and his colleague in Dhekiajuli. These violent incidents have been described as direct attacks not only on the affected individuals but on the very foundation of press freedom and the democratic values that uphold the right to free and fearless journalism.

The IJU has expressed deep concern over the increasing instances of violence against journalists in Assam, particularly those reporting from politically sensitive and conflict-prone regions. The attacks on Madhurjya Saikia, who was reporting on the panchayat president elections in Dhemaji, and on journalists covering illegal mining activities in Dhekiajuli, underscore the escalating risks faced by media personnel while on duty. These attacks, according to the IJU, are clear attempts to intimidate and silence journalists, undermining the core principles of democracy that allow for transparent reporting and the free flow of information.

IJU President and former member of the Press Council of India, Geetartha Pathak, expressed grave concern, stating, “The repeated attacks on journalists in Assam serve as a stark reminder of the state’s failure to ensure the safety and security of media personnel. It is the responsibility of the government to protect journalists, who play a pivotal role in ensuring transparency and accountability in our democratic system. The comments made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma regarding the lack of unity among journalists are irrelevant and in no way justify these brutal assaults. The government must focus on ensuring the safety of journalists and bring the perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice, rather than deflecting responsibility.”

The IJU also highlighted the challenges faced by journalists, including pressures and temptations from powerful political factions, aimed at suppressing critical reporting. Such attempts often divide the journalistic community and undermine its collective strength. However, the IJU emphasized that while these challenges exist, they cannot in any way justify the physical violence against journalists. The failure of the government to provide a safe working environment for media personnel is a grave concern that demands urgent attention.

IJU Secretary General Sabina Inderjit remarked, “We stand in unwavering solidarity with the Journalists Union of Assam and demand that the authorities act swiftly to arrest and punish those responsible for these attacks. The state must urgently create a legal framework dedicated to the protection of journalists from violence, intimidation, and harassment. Any delay in delivering justice will only embolden anti-press elements and further weaken press freedom in Assam.”

The Indian Journalists Union has called on the Assam government to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into these incidents and ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice. Additionally, the IJU has urged the state to introduce comprehensive protective measures for journalists, including the establishment of robust laws to safeguard media personnel working in difficult and dangerous environments.

Reaffirming its commitment to defending press freedom, the IJU continues to support journalists across India in their pursuit of truth, justice, and transparency.