Delhi:Restrictions Tightened on Journalists Covering Parliamentary Proceedings

New Delhi: This picture was taken today within the Parliament House complex, where new restrictions on journalists covering parliamentary proceedings have been imposed. Initially, cameras were banned, leading reporters to conduct interviews using their phones. Now, access to the 'Makar Dwar' has also been restricted.
'Makar Dwar' was a key location where MPs would stand and speak with the media. This latest restriction has sparked protests among journalists, including many prominent figures. Senior journalist Prabhakar Mishra from News 24, who covers the Supreme Court, speculates that opposition leaders used to stand at 'Makar Dwar' to speak with the media, often criticizing the government. Some media outlets would broadcast these criticisms, which might be a reason behind the new restrictions.
#NewDelhi- Restrictions Tightened on Journalists Covering Parliamentary Proceedings.@PMishra_Journo @ajitanjum @vinodkapri @ravishndtv @abhisar_sharma @sakshijoshii @sardesairajdeep @PCITweets @PressCouncil_IN @yadavakhilesh @RahulGandhi @SupriyaShrinate @dollysharmaINC pic.twitter.com/CEh6zQYMci
— The Vocal News (@thevocalnews) July 29, 2024
Journalists argue that these measures hinder their ability to report on parliamentary activities effectively. They believe that access to MPs and the ability to conduct spontaneous interviews is crucial for transparent and accurate reporting.
कुछ लोग पूछ रहे हैं कि इसकी वजह क्या हो सकती है! मुझे वजह तो नहीं पता, अनुमान जरूर लगा सकता हूं। मकर द्वार पर विपक्ष के नेता खड़ा होकर मीडिया से बात करते थे। विपक्ष के नेता, सरकार की आलोचना करते हैं, भला बुरा बोलते हैं! और कुछ मीडिया वाले उसे दिखाते हैं।
— Prabhakar Kumar Mishra (@PMishra_Journo) July 29, 2024
हो सकता है, यही वजह हो! https://t.co/Y7FFygxrOL
The media community is urging the authorities to reconsider these restrictions and restore access to ensure that the public remains informed about the workings of their elected representatives. The ongoing protests highlight the tension between the need for security and the fundamental rights of a free press in a democratic society.