Press Club of India, Member and senior journalist Manoj Sharma Led Fight for Bhind Journalists in Delhi; Struggle Gains Ground Through His Efforts

Bhopal, August 18, 2025

Incidents of police assault, illegal detention, intimidation, and harassment of journalists in Bhind district have ignited widespread public outrage. Such actions are being seen as an attack on freedom of expression, independent journalism, and the fourth pillar of democracy.

The Madhya Pradesh Congress has termed this a grave democratic violation and announced a massive protest and rally in Bhind on September 11. The event will be led by State Congress President Jitu Patwari, with former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh as a key participant.

The sequence of events is as follows: Journalists Shashikant Goyal (Dainik Bejor Ratna) and Amarkant Chauhan (Swaraj Express, Bhind) had reported on illegal sand mining in the Chambal River. Angered by the coverage, Bhind police first issued threats and then allegedly sought to “teach them a lesson.” When the journalists refused to stop their reporting, police summoned them along with over a dozen others to the SP’s office, forced them to strip, and physically assaulted them.

The police also compelled the journalists to record a video statement claiming that “all issues have been resolved,” which was later circulated on WhatsApp in an attempt to discredit them publicly.

In response, the Press Club of India has urged the Director General of Madhya Pradesh Police, the Press Council of India, and the Human Rights Commission to intervene immediately to ensure justice.

Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of the case and demanded a detailed report within two weeks.

Former Leader of Opposition and senior Congress leader Dr. Govind Singh said:
“This hooliganism by Bhind police is not just a threat to journalists, but a signal of fear for every citizen in the district. No action has been taken against the guilty officers so far—they continue to enjoy protection. That is why we have decided to hold a massive protest on September 11.”

Senior journalist and Press Club member Manoj Sharma strongly reacted, stating:
“An attack on journalists is an attack on the fourth pillar of democracy. If truth-tellers are not safe today, the very foundation of democracy will crumble. Immediate action against the guilty is essential.”

The movement is expected to see participation from key Congress leaders including state in-charge Harish Choudhary, Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar, and senior leader Vivek Tankha, making it a symbol of public awakening and democratic resistance.