Srinagar, Oct 31 (KNS): The Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) has directed all District Information Officers (DIOs) in the Kashmir Division to intensify monitoring and reporting against the misuse of media identity and cases of impersonation.

Acoording to a circular, a copy of which lies with Kashmir News Service (KNS) reads that following repeated complaints from government departments, public representatives, and media houses that certain individuals are posing as journalists without proper accreditation or authorization. These fake reporters have allegedly been involved in blackmail, extortion, and circulation of defamatory content against officials and public institutions.

In several cases, such individuals have already been apprehended and booked under relevant laws, which underscores the seriousness of the matter.

The DIPR has instructed all DIOs to maintain a verified and regularly updated list of accredited journalists in coordination with the Directorate and media organizations. Press releases, media invites, and official briefings are to be shared only with recognized media outlets. Officers have been asked to report any misuse of media credentials or attempts to malign officials or institutions to the concerned Deputy Commissioner and Police for immediate legal and administrative action.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

District officers have been told to ensure that government offices verify the credentials of anyone claiming to represent a media outlet before granting access or sharing information. Each district must submit regular vigilance reports detailing incidents, preventive measures, and field updates to the Directorate.

The circular further reads that the DIPR has also advised DIOs to sensitize local media houses to exercise due diligence while engaging correspondents, freelancers, or stringers, ensuring that only credible and verified persons are issued authorization letters and ID cards. Media organizations have been urged to take disciplinary and legal action against representatives found involved in unethical or coercive practices, and to publicly disassociate from individuals misusing their organization’s name for personal gain.

The directive emphasizes adherence to the Press Council of India’s code of journalistic ethics and compliance with DIPR’s accreditation and empanelment guidelines.

The move seeks to safeguard the integrity of genuine journalism and curb the misuse of media identity for personal or financial motives.(KNS)