Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Oct 31: Taking strong note of the rising complaints about misuse of media credentials and impersonation, the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has directed all the District Information Officers (DIOs) in Kashmir Division to enhance vigilance and report such cases promptly.
In a circular issued by the Joint Director Information, Kashmir, the department said that several unauthorized individuals were posing as journalists to indulge in the unfair practices of blackmailing, extortion, and defamation of public officials and institutions.
It noted that some of these persons had already been apprehended and booked.
“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,” read the circular.
To curb such misuse, DIOs have been accordingly instructed to maintain a verified list of accredited media persons in coordination with DIPR and media houses.
They have also been told to share official information only with recognized journalists and immediately report cases of impersonation to the police and Deputy Commissioners concerned in the Valley.
The DIPR has also urged the editors to verify the credentials of their representatives and take action against anyone found misusing the identity of their media house.
It also reminded all stakeholders to adhere to the Press Council of India’s journalistic code of ethics and DIPR’s accreditation norms for maintaining professionalism in media practices.
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