Srinagar, Jun 23 (KNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Editors Forum strongly condemned the statement by former Minister and BJP MLA, Chaudhary Lal Singh, issuing a threat to Kashmiri journalists. The disgraced BJP MLA has broken all records of decency by earlier supporting the rapists in the case of Gujjar girl of Kathua.
Now instead of condemning the attack and murder of founder editor of Rising Kashmir, Shujaat Bukhari, Lal Singh has warned Kashmiri journalists of similar fate. Forum has sought strict police action against Lal Singh and demanded that he should desist from issuing irresponsible statements henceforth. The Forum has appealed to the Governor to intervene in the matter failing which it will launch a strong protest. It has said that the media fraternity is already under threat and Lal Singh has shown disregard to the role of press in espousing impartial governance.
The Forum has also appealed the Press Council of India to take cognisance of the matter stating that media is already in shock over the death of Shujat Bukhari and such statements are only compounding the difficulties.
The Forum also noted that media is considered to be the fourth estate of democracy and works irrespective of political leaning and is not prevented by borders to carry out its duties. It has sought that Lal Singh should withdraw his statement as it was unfortunate. (KNS)