ITANAGAR, Jun 29: The Arunachal Press Club, Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists and Arunachal Electronic & Digital Media Association condemn in strongest terms the physical assault and verbal threats by at least four identified men on Monday to a state journalist while on the line of duty.
Digital media outlet Gyoloo News reporter Hofe Dada was reporting on SMS Smelters Ltd in Lekhi village, Naharlagun when he was reportedly accosted by four men. Dada was allegedly slapped by one of the men without any provocation.
When questioned why they were assaulting him, the men reportedly questioned Dada as to why journalists repeatedly make reports on the above factory. Dada said that he tried to explain to them that he was trying to report on an issue that affects the people. But, he was told to leave the premises and issued a threat if he did not comply.
Reportedly, one of the men said that he will meet the same fate that senior journalist Tongam Rina had met when she was shot at in 2012.
Dada has filed a complaint with Nirjuli police station and a case has been registered (vide No.25/2020) u/s 341/325/506 IPC.
The media bodies extremely concerned by such incidents would like to express that such complaints of intimidation have been received on several occasions earlier too. While without making remark on the merit of any accusation or whether the goons have any connection with the above firm, we hope and appeal to the Arunachal Pradesh Police to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter.
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