A.P. government forms panel to address attacks on journalists

The Andhra Pradesh government has established a high-ranking committee to investigate attacks, murders, and harassment against journalists, issuing a government order on Wednesday. The panel consists of the State Home Minister as chairman, the Information and Public Relations Minister as vice-chairman, journalists’ association representatives, and the Commissioner of Information and Public Relations, as per the official announcement.

This decision follows demands from journalists' organizations for stringent action against such incidents and better protection while performing their duties. The government highlighted in the GO that the committee would safeguard the principles of journalism, referred to as the "Fourth Estate," and tackle concerns related to journalists' safety.

Information and Public Relations Minister Kolusu Parthasarathi engaged with senior officials to discuss the committee's formation. Additionally, the government restored privileges such as accreditation and health insurance for journalists, asserting that several eligible journalists during the previous administration did not receive these facilities, whereas the number of accreditations rose after all eligible journalists were included under the current system.

The newly formed committee mirrors a similar body set up in 2016 during the earlier TDP government, which reportedly functioned effectively.