By Ajaz Rashid
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s recent directive to crack down on fake journalists in Jammu and Kashmir marks a decisive moment in the battle to restore integrity in the region’s media landscape. In an era where the lines between authentic reporting and digital opportunism have blurred, the administration’s move seeks to draw a much-needed distinction between genuine journalists and those exploiting the profession for personal or political gain.
The issue is not new. Over the past few years the rise of self-styled media persons running unregistered portals or Facebook pages has eroded public trust in journalism. Armed with unofficial ID cards and access to social media some individuals have misused the title of journalist to intimidate officials, demand favours or peddle misinformation. The problem has reached such proportions that legislators themselves recently raised alarm in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly demanding concrete action.
By directing departments to engage only bona fide journalists verified by the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) the Lieutenant Governor has underlined two key principles, accountability and credibility. The proposed verified database of accredited and active journalists in every district could serve as an effective tool to distinguish between professionals and pretenders. Equally important is the move to bring digital media platforms under regulatory oversight ensuring they operate within ethical and legal boundaries.
This is not an attack on press freedom but a defense of it. Genuine journalists who work under tremendous pressure to report truthfully in a complex region deserve protection from those who tarnish the profession’s image. For too long fake credentials and unchecked social media newsrooms have diluted the credibility of legitimate media voices and complicated the government’s engagement with the press.
Ultimately the credibility of the media is the backbone of democracy. In cleaning up the information ecosystem the Jammu and Kashmir administration is not only curbing misuse but also reaffirming respect for the role of ethical journalism, a profession that informs, questions and upholds public interest.
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