Govt steps in to regulate media operations

Srinagar, Nov 3: The government has initiated a verification drive to regulate media operations in the valley, making it mandatory for all journalists to register and validate their credentials with the District Information Offices.
The directive issued by the District Information Officers (DIOs) of Baramulla and Kupwara, follows instructions from the Joint Director Information Kashmir.
It aims to curb the misuse of media identity and ensure that only genuine journalists are allowed to operate in the field.
According to officials, the move comes amid growing concerns over the presence of unverified individuals posing as journalists. Media persons have been asked to submit their documents and credentials within seven days for verification.
Only registered and authenticated media persons will be permitted to cover official events, government functions and visits of dignitaries. Unauthorized individuals will be denied entry to such engagements, officials said.
The administration said the verification exercise is part of a wider effort to maintain professionalism, transparency and accountability within the media fraternity. It also seeks to safeguard the credibility of legitimate journalists and prevent misuse of press privileges. (KNO)