Journalist attacked in Siuri, questions over police role — state-wide outrage in journalist community
Reported by Sanchita chatterjee: A journalist was attacked while gathering news in Siuri, Birbhum. There have been allegations of an attack on Shantiniketan TV journalist Raja Hossain. Eyewitnesses claim that he was thrown to the ground and beaten up in front of the police. The incident has spread excitement throughout the area.
It is alleged that although the police were present at the spot, no action was taken to prevent the attack. There has been intense anger in the journalist community over this incident.
Not only in Birbhum, but also in Murshidabad, there have been allegations of an attack on a female journalist. Media workers claim that incidents of attacks on journalists while gathering news are increasing in various places. More serious allegations are that in many cases, false cases are being filed against journalists without proper investigation of the incident.
According to several members of the press club, journalists are being attacked and harassed while gathering news, especially during elections. This raises big questions about the freedom of the press.
In this situation, it is learnt that various press clubs in the state are going to jointly submit a written complaint to the Election Commission. This step is being taken to ensure the safety of journalists and an environment where they can work freely.
There have been demands from various quarters for a proper investigation into the incident and strict punishment of the culprits.

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