Journalist Harassment Row: BRS Demands Action Against Police Personnel

BRS leader RS Praveen Kumar has demanded strict action against police personnel accused of harassing two journalists in Rajanna Sircilla district, alleging that they were booked in false cases and subjected to third-degree torture for reporting on police involvement in land disputes. He met the affected journalists, Shekhar and Sampath, of Ek Dham News, and assured them of his support until justice was delivered.

Praveen Kumar alleged that the police at Gambhiraopet developed personal animosity towards the journalists after they published a report questioning their alleged intervention in land disputes. He claimed that the two were subsequently targeted, tortured and left with serious injuries, causing them considerable fear and distress.

He also highlighted the social backgrounds of the victims, noting that one belongs to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community and the other to the Backward Classes (BC). He said the incident raised serious concerns about the treatment of journalists who report on alleged misconduct by officials.

Praveen Kumar criticised the police department for allegedly failing to act on a complaint submitted to the Karimnagar Police Commissioner over the incident. He claimed that no FIR had been registered despite the complaint, accusing the authorities of adopting different standards when dealing with complaints involving journalists and those opposing the ruling party.

According to him, police swiftly register cases and make arrests against critics of the government, while complaints filed by journalists are allegedly being ignored. He also launched a sharp attack on the Congress government led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, alleging that police personnel themselves were engaging in unlawful activities under the current administration.

Questioning the department's commitment to friendly policing, Praveen Kumar called on the Director General of Police (DGP) to respond to the allegations and ensure accountability. Referring to the earlier Karl Rajesh incident, he further alleged that Shekhar and Sampath had also faced an attempt on their lives.

The BRS leader demanded the immediate registration of criminal cases against the police personnel concerned and called for a comprehensive probe by the Crime Investigation Department (CID). He insisted that those found responsible must face stringent action.

Praveen Kumar reiterated that his party would continue to stand by the journalists until the allegations were thoroughly investigated and the victims received justice. He stressed that journalists must be able to report on matters of public interest without fear of retaliation.