NHRC takes suo motu cognizance of attacks on journalists
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India, has taken suo motu cognizance of media reports regarding attacks on three journalists in Kerala, Manipur, and Tripura between August and September 2025. The Commission has issued notices to the Directors General of Police of the three states, calling for detailed reports within two weeks on the incidents and the status of police investigations.
Journalists attacked in three states
According to media reports, the journalist in Tripura was brutally assaulted by a group of miscreants armed with sticks and sharp weapons while attending a clothes distribution programme organised by a political party in Hezamara, West Tripura. The attackers also stole his motorcycle before fleeing the scene.
In Manipur, another journalist suffered severe injuries after being shot twice with an air gun while covering a flower festival in Laii Village of Senapati District.
In Kerala, a journalist returning from a wedding function was attacked by a group of unidentified individuals near Mangattukavala, Thodupuzha.
Victims hospitalised, police cases registered
All three journalists were admitted to hospitals for treatment following the assaults. Police have registered cases in each incident, and investigations are underway.
NHRC observes violation of press freedom
The Commission observed that the attacks on journalists raise serious concerns regarding the protection of media freedom and the safety of those performing their professional duties. It emphasised that freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy and that such violent acts represent grave human rights violations.
