Jammu Newspaper Editors’ Association welcomes UT Administration’s move to curb fake journalists

STATE TIMES NEWS

JAMMU: The Jammu Newspaper Editors’ Association has hailed the Union Territory Administration’s recent measures aimed at curbing the growing menace of fake journalists and safeguarding the credibility of professional journalism in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a statement, the Chairman of the Jammu Newspaper Editors’ Association, Adarsh Pal Gupta, and President Ravinder Singh welcomed the initiative of the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Kashmir Division, which has issued a circular directing strict action against individuals misusing the name of media for personal gains such as extortion, blackmail, and spreading misinformation.
The move follows a recent high-level review meeting in Srinagar, where the issue of impersonation and misuse of media identity cards was discussed in detail. The administration has directed all Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police to identify such individuals and ensure appropriate legal action.
Chairman Adarsh Pal Gupta termed the decision “a much-needed step to restore the dignity of genuine journalists and uphold public faith in responsible journalism.” He added, “For far too long, unscrupulous elements have exploited the name of media to serve vested interests. This decisive action by the administration will help draw a clear line between authentic media professionals and impostors.”
President Ravinder Singh echoed similar sentiments, stating that the directive “reflects the government’s genuine commitment towards a transparent and accountable media environment.” He further remarked, “Maintaining an updated list of accredited journalists and restricting official communication to verified professionals will go a long way in preserving journalistic integrity and protecting the interests of working journalists.”
The Association also urged editors and media owners to ensure due diligence while engaging correspondents, freelancers, and stringers, in accordance with the guidelines of the Press Council of India and the DIPR.
Reaffirming its commitment to ethical and responsible journalism, the Jammu Newspaper Editors’ Association assured full cooperation with the administration and law enforcement agencies to eliminate unethical practices from the media space.
“This initiative will strengthen public trust in the media and reinforce journalism as a noble profession dedicated to truth, transparency, and accountability,” the statement concluded.