Scribes covering protests should carry ID, maintain distance: Delhi Police advisory

Delhi Police has issued an advisory for journalists covering protests, emphasizing the importance of carrying valid identification cards and maintaining a safe distance. According to a social media post on X, journalists covering protests are required to display their identification cards visibly at all times. This helps law enforcement agencies identify them quickly in case of any issues.

The guidelines also state that journalists should ensure their presence or activities do not obstruct police operations or the movement of law enforcement personnel. In tense situations, they should maintain a reasonable and safe distance while covering the proceedings, ensuring they are distinguishable from the protestors. This advisory follows recent allegations of sexual harassment made against police officers by three women journalists during a protest against the Election Commission at Jantar Mantar.

The Delhi Police has forwarded these complaints to the Crime Branch for further investigation. In response to these allegations, independent journalists protested outside Parliament Street police station, demanding the filing of FIRs against the officers.