Ex-Presidents of Jammu Press Club demand ban on ‘Blackmailer’ Portal ‘The Daily Truth News’; hail ST for expose
Sr journalists welcome LG’s directive to weed out fake reporters
STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Strongly condemning the growing menace of blackmailing digital portals in Jammu, former Presidents of the Press Club of Jammu, Manu Shrivatsav and Ashwani Kumar, have called for stringent action against unregistered and extortionist online platforms masquerading as news outlets.
Referring to the STATE TIMES expose titled “Blackmailing Portals on Rise in Jammu; FIR Lodged against ‘The Daily Truth News’ for Extortion Attempt,” both veteran journalists lauded the publication for its “commendable and courageous journalism” in unmasking fake reporters such as Shubham of The Daily Truth News.
“Such blackmailer portals are a blot on the noble profession of journalism. They must be immediately banned, and strong legal action should be initiated against individuals misusing the media for extortion and blackmail,” said Manu Shrivatsav, noting that the unchecked proliferation of unverified portals has “deeply eroded public trust in the media.”
He urged the government and police to take serious cognizance of the issue and ensure that individuals misusing digital platforms for blackmail and intimidation are booked under relevant laws.
“The administration must regulate digital media and prevent misuse of press credentials by self-styled reporters who have nothing to do with real journalism,” he added.
Echoing similar concerns, Ashwani Kumar said that the rise of blackmailer portals poses a “serious threat to media credibility and ethics.”
“Freedom of the press should never be used as a shield for extortion. Genuine journalists follow ethics and accountability, while such elements misuse the name of media for personal gain,” he asserted.
Ashwani Kumar appreciated STATE TIMES for “upholding the spirit of true journalism” and standing firm against unethical practices.
“The paper deserves appreciation for fearlessly exposing those who bring disrepute to the fraternity. This kind of responsible reporting restores faith in the institution of media,” he added.
Both senior journalists also appreciated the Lieutenant Governor’s directive to administration and the Information Department to frame a comprehensive policy for registration, verification, and accountability of online news portals in Jammu and Kashmir.
“The time has come to separate real journalists from blackmailers in disguise. Strict registration norms, verification processes, and licensing guidelines are essential to safeguard the credibility of journalism,” they concluded.
