Breaking News: Journalist Unscathed, But Digital Scribes’ Rights in Question: Himanta Biswa Sarma Speaks Out

Assam Chief Minister Clarifies Stance on Arrest of Digital Journalist, Highlights Lack of Recognition for Online Media

In a press conference, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday stressed that no journalist has been arrested in the state, dismissing claims of the arrest of digital journalist Dilwar Hussain Mozumder. The Chief Minister also reiterated the state government’s long-standing stance on the non-recognition of journalists working for online portals or YouTube channels.

According to Sarma, the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) does not officially recognize these journalists, as they do not receive registrations, advertisements, or identification cards. "We don’t qualify as journalists according to our norms," he asserted, emphasizing that those working for online media have not approached the government for recognition.

Sarma’s statement comes as Mozumder, who is also the Assistant General Secretary of the Gauhati Press Club, was arrested on Tuesday night under sections 351(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for alleged criminal intimidation and Sections of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. He was later granted bail, but rearrested on Thursday in a second case filed by the Managing Director of the Assam Cooperative Apex Bank Limited for allegedly attempting to steal valuable bank documents.

The Chief Minister emphasized that none of the cases against Mozumder are related to his journalism, and he is not being targeted for his writing. "If media associations are prepared to take responsibility for the cases against him, then he will be immediately released," Sarma offered. When asked to clarify the situation, Sarma posted on Facebook, stating, "It has come to my notice that some media houses have reported the arrest of a journalist by Assam Police. I would like to clarify that Assam Police has not arrested any journalist in recent times."

Mozumder’s arrest has sparked concerns over press freedom and the treatment of journalists in the state. Sarma’s comments have once again highlighted the ongoing debate over the recognition of online media and the rights of digital journalists.

As the situation continues to unfold, the community of journalists and media professionals will be closely monitoring the developments, seeking clarity on the status of Mozumder’s release and the broader implications for press freedom in Assam.

Keywords: Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, Journalist Arrest, Digital Media, Press Freedom.

Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/no-journalist-arrested-digital-portal-scribes-not-recognized-himanta-biswa-sarma-1190318-2025-03-27?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-03-27 23:26:00