Arresting journalists deprives citizens of their right to know

 

New Delhi, January 15, 2026: The National Union of Journalists–India (NUJ-I) strongly condemns the illegal and arbitrary arrest of senior journalists Mr. Dontu Ramesh, Mr. Paripoorna Chary, and Mr. Sudheer by the Telangana Police in connection with a news report telecast on NTV concerning a Minister in the Telangana State Cabinet.

 

NUJ-I President Mr. Ras Bihari stated that “the arrests constitute a grave attack on democracy, press freedom, and constitutional values. The manner in which these arrests were carried out exposes a serious failure of democratic governance.” He pointed out that even after the constitution of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), the State Government permitted the police to arrest the journalists without issuing any prior notice, summons, or providing them an opportunity to explain. Such action is a clear violation of the principles of natural justice, due process of law, and the constitutional safeguards guaranteed to every citizen. 

 

Journalists are not criminals; they are professionals discharging their constitutional duty of informing the public and holding those in positions of power accountable. Arresting journalists for a news report sends a dangerous and chilling message that the Government is intolerant of scrutiny and criticism. 

 

The National Union of Journalists–India does not support journalism that violates the law or indulges in personal defamation. However, the sudden registration of criminal cases and the immediate arrest of these senior journalists give rise to a strong apprehension that the action is politically motivated and intended to silence critical voices.

Freedom of the press is guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India. It is the constitutional responsibility of the State Government to protect this freedom and ensure that journalists can perform their professional duties without fear or intimidation. The present actions of the Telangana Police amount to a direct attack on democracy and constitutional freedoms.

In view of the above, the National Union of Journalists–India demands:

1. The immediate and unconditional release of the arrested senior journalists;

2. The immediate withdrawal of all cases registered against them; and

3. Clear instructions to police authorities that journalists shall not be arrested or harassed for performing their professional duties.

Failure to address this grave injustice will compel the journalist community across the country to initiate nationwide democratic protests and pursue appropriate legal action.

 

Office Secretary, National Union of Journalists–India