The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) India has issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of Kerala, Manipur and Tripura in the matter of reported attacks on journalists at different places, calling for detailed reports on the matters within two weeks.
Reportedly, in all three cases, the victims were hospitalised for treatment and cases were registered by the police.
Taking suo motu cognizance of media reports, the Commission has asked the DGP of the following state to intimate the present status of investigation in the case and the steps taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur in future.
The incidents occurred on August 30, 2025, in Kerala and Manipur, and on September 21, 2025, in Tripura. In response, the Commission has instructed the Directors General of Police (DGPs) of the three states to submit detailed reports on the incidents within a fortnight.
In Tripura, a journalist covering a clothes distribution programme organised by a political party in Hezamara, West Tripura, was attacked by a group wielding sticks and sharp weapons.
His motorcycle was also stolen. In Manipur, a journalist sustained severe injuries after being shot twice with an air gun while covering a flower festival in Laii Village, Senapati District.
Meanwhile, in Kerala, a journalist was reportedly assaulted near Mangattukavala, Thodupuzha, as he returned from a wedding function. All three victims were hospitalised, and police registered cases in each instance.
The NHRC emphasised that journalists must be able to operate without fear or obstruction, given their critical role in upholding democracy and transparency.
The Commission’s notices demand comprehensive details about the incidents, the measures taken, and steps planned to prevent recurrence.