SC grants interim protection from arrest to MP journalists alleging police assault
New Delhi, Jun 9 (UNI) The Supreme Court on Monday granted interim protection from arrest to two Madhya Pradesh-based journalists who alleged custodial torture, caste-based abuse, and death threats from Bhind police officials, including Superintendent of Police Asit Yadav.
The petitioners, journalists Shashikant Jatav and Amarkant Singh Chouhan, approached the apex court under Article 32 of the Constitution, claiming that they were assaulted by the state police for reporting on the alleged exploitation of the Chambal River by the sand mafia.
A bench comprising justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Manmohan, while declining to entertain the writ petition, directed the journalists to move the Madhya Pradesh High Court within two weeks.
'We are not inclined to entertain this petition under Article 32,' the bench said. 'However, looking at the allegations, we permit the petitioners to move the concerned High Court within two weeks from today. Till then, the petitioners shall not be arrested.'
Counsel for the journalists pleaded for protection, saying, 'We are fearing for our lives. Kindly protect us for at least two weeks.' The court granted the limited interim relief but made it clear that all further remedies must be sought before the appropriate high court.
The case brings to light serious concerns regarding alleged police high-handedness and intimidation of media personnel covering illegal activities in the region.
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