Srinagar, October 31: In a strong move to curb the growing misuse of media identity and impersonation of journalists, the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has issued strict directives to all District Information Officers (DIOs) across the Union Territory, calling for enhanced vigilance, monitoring, and immediate reporting of such malpractices.
The circular, bearing No. INF/K-Estt. 2091-98/2025, highlights increasing complaints from government officials, public representatives, and legitimate media houses about individuals falsely claiming to represent recognized media organizations. These impersonators, according to the circular, have been involved in serious offences such as blackmail, extortion, coercion of public officials, and circulation of defamatory or unverified content.
Citing several cases where such individuals were apprehended and booked for extortion and misuse of media identity, the order emphasizes that the issue has assumed grave proportions, necessitating coordinated administrative and legal action.
Under the new directives, DIOs have been instructed to:
1. Maintain verified lists of accredited and bona fide media persons within their districts in consultation with the DIPR and registered media houses.
2. Restrict press communications — including official releases and media invitations — strictly to verified and recognized journalists.
3. Report impersonators promptly to police and district authorities, providing full factual details for coordinated legal action.
4. Ensure credential verification before granting access or sharing information with anyone claiming media affiliation.
5. Submit regular vigilance reports to the Directorate, detailing incidents and preventive measures.
In addition, the circular calls upon media houses and editors to exercise due diligence while appointing correspondents, freelancers, and stringers. They have been urged to issue verifiable authorization letters and ID cards, take disciplinary action against unethical representatives, and publicly disassociate from individuals misusing their name for personal or financial gain.
The communication reiterates the importance of upholding journalistic ethics as prescribed by the Press Council of India and the DIPR’s accreditation and empanelment guidelines. It further cautions media outlets against extending legitimacy to individuals facing credible allegations of extortion or blackmail under the guise of journalism.
The directive marks a significant step in the administration’s effort to safeguard the credibility of genuine journalism and protect public officials and citizens from harassment or exploitation through the misuse of media identity.
