The Goa Union of Journalists (GUJ) and Photo-Journalists’ Association Goa (PJAG) on Sunday reportedly condemned the assault and manhandling of the photo-journalist of 'The Goan' by on-duty police personnel. The incident occurred when police personnel were trying to disperse protestors gathered near the Colva road junction in Margao. It is learnt that two police personnel asked another photo-journalist to delete the footage of the lathi charge. The GUJ has reportedly demanded the immediate suspension of the policemen concerned and for a thorough investigation in the matter. This brutal attack by the police is highly condemnable as it is a direct attack on the freedom of the press and the fundamental right to report. The press derives this right from the right to freedom of speech and expression in Article 19(1) (a) of the Constitution of India, 1950. Media is the fourth pillar of democracy and media personnel often face challenges in performing their duties. Be that as it may, it would be in the fitness of things to provide journalists with a vest, while covering protests and riots, so that they can be easily identified in the crowd.
