The India Freedom of Expression Initiative (IFEI) has praised the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for directing compensation of Rs 10 lakhs to the family of journalist Shahdev Dey, whose body was discovered after he went missing in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The NHRC’s decision followed the grim discovery of Dey’s charred remains on April 2, 2025. The journalist, who owned the local news channel ‘Republic Andaman,’ had been reported missing since March 29, 2025.
In a directive dated September 9, 2025, the NHRC instructed the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to ensure that Dey’s family receives monetary compensation of five lakh each within two weeks. On April 3, 2025, Suhas Chakma, the IFEI Convenor, filed a complaint with the NHRC, alleging that Dey, known for exposing illegal activities such as timber smuggling and gambling, was murdered to silence his “fearless journalism.”
The Andaman Police reported to the NHRC that an FIR (No. 24/2025) was registered at Diglipur Police Station on April 1, 2025, under sections 103(1)/61(2)/238 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. An investigation is being conducted under the supervision of Inspector Vijay Kumar, the Station House Officer of Diglipur Police Station. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to ensure a thorough, transparent, and timely probe into the journalist’s murder.
The authorities have arrested four suspects in connection with the crime: S. Gangaya (48), Ramasubramaniyan (47), Bithika Mallik (35), and M. Ramesh (44). The accused have confessed to the crime, and collected evidence indicates the premeditated nature of the act, directly tied to Dey’s reporting on illegal enterprises in the region.
In its order, the NHRC stated, “The killing of the journalist was established to be a result of his daring journalism concerning illegal activities in the area. The Commission believes it is appropriate to provide monetary compensation to the victim’s family.” Suhas Chakma remarked on the broader implications, pointing out that journalists across India face escalating threats, particularly from non-state actors, due to their profession. He expressed that the NHRC’s ruling and the prosecution of the accused represent a significant step towards safeguarding journalists in the country.
Original Source: https://nenews.in/politics/ifei-hails-nhrc-order-for-rs-10-lakh-compensation-for-slain-journalist-shahdev-deys-next-of-kin/32396/
Category: Politics,India Freedom of Expression Initiative (IFEI),National Human Rights Commission
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-09-12 15:49:00
