Chhattisgarh assembly passes bill for protection of journalists

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• Mar 23, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The state assembly has passed the Chhattisgarh Protection of Media Persons Act, which covers journalists, freelancers, and photographers...

Digital Desk: The state assembly has passed the Chhattisgarh Protection of Media Persons Act, which covers journalists, freelancers, and photographers with at least a year of experience. The bill suggests forming a committee to investigate complaints of journalist harassment within 90 days of its notification.

The ruling Congress promised the legislation before it was voted to power over four years back.

Before the measure was introduced in the assembly on Wednesday, a committee submitted its draft in 2020. The bill states that any public servant who willfully neglects duties in carrying out the legislation will be fined.

It imposes a penalty of Rs 25,000 on a private person who commits violence, harassment, or intimidation against a media person.

Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said that the bill is intended to prevent violence against journalists and to protect the properties of journalists and media institutions. The CM added that the measure was drafted after consultations.

The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party requested that the bill be sent to a select committee for further review.