Mokokchung, August 25 (MExN): The Mokokchung Press Club (MPC) has expressed concern over instances where journalists face intimidation or harassment while carrying out their professional duties. An MPC press note said it was “disturbed” by the public rebuke directed at a reporter during a meeting on August 23 by Deputy CMY Patton, followed by his subsequent clarification disputing the report in question.
“While disagreements over facts may arise, addressing them through intimidation or denial of access is unacceptable in a democracy. Such disputes must be resolved through right of reply and established institutional channels, not from the podium,” the MPC said. It said journalists have both right & responsibility to ask questions, seek clarity, and report events without fear of reprisal. “Any attempt to silence or restrict the press undermines not only the profession but also the public’s fundamental right to information,” it said.
The MPC also reminded it is the media's responsibility to uphold highest standards of integrity, fairness, and accountability. The MPC said a free and independent press is “non-negotiable in the functioning of any healthy democracy.”
