Press Statement

Press Statement: Indian Journalists Union Condemns Attacks on Journalists in Assam

10 Jul, 2025

New Delhi, July 10, 2025 – The Indian Journalists Union (IJU), in solidarity with the Journalists Union of Assam, strongly condemns the recent brutal attacks on journalists in Assam, including the shocking assault on television journalist Madhurjya Saikia in Dhemaji’s Silapathar and the attack on Bimaljyoti Nath and his colleague in Dhekiajuli. These incidents are not only an assault on individuals but a direct attack on press freedom and the democratic values that uphold the right to free and fearless journalism. The IJU is deeply troubled by the growing pattern of violence against media personnel in Assam, particularly those reporting from conflict-prone or politically sensitive areas. The assault on Madhurjya Saikia, who was covering the panchayat president elections in Dhemaji, and the attack on journalists reporting on illegal mining in Dhekiajuli, highlight the increasing risks faced by journalists in the line of duty. Such acts of violence are a deliberate attempt to intimidate and silence the press, undermining the fundamental principles of democracy.

IJU President and former member of the Press Council of India, Geetartha Pathak, stated, “The repeated attacks on journalists in Assam are a grim reminder of the state’s failure to ensure the safety and security of media personnel. It is the government’s responsibility to protect journalists, who play a critical role in upholding transparency and accountability. The comment by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma about a lack of unity among journalists is irrelevant and does not justify these heinous acts. The government must focus on bringing the perpetrators to justice instead of deflecting responsibility.” The IJU also notes with concern the pressures and allurements faced by journalists, often from ruling classes, to suppress critical reporting. Such tactics create divisions within the journalistic community, weakening its collective strength. However, these challenges in no way excuse or justify physical violence against media personnel. The government’s failure to provide a safe working environment for journalists is unacceptable and demands immediate action.

IJU Secretary General Sabina Inderjit said, “We stand in unwavering solidarity with the Journalists Union of Assam and demand the immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those responsible for these attacks. The state must enact a dedicated legal framework to protect journalists from violence, intimidation, and harassment. Delays in delivering justice will only embolden anti-press elements and further erode press freedom in Assam.”The IJU calls upon the Assam government to conduct a swift and transparent investigation into these incidents and ensure that the culprits are brought to justice without delay. We also urge the state to implement robust measures to safeguard journalists, including the introduction of a comprehensive law to protect media personnel working in challenging environments. The IJU reiterates its commitment to defending press freedom and supporting journalists across India in their pursuit of truth and justice.