Srinagar, Mar 04 (KNS) : CPI(M) leader and MLA from Kulgam, M. Y. Tarigami, on Wednesday expressed concern over what he described as restrictions on established media organizations in Kashmir, including Greater Kashmir, Rising Kashmir, and Kashmir Life, after their social media pages were reportedly taken down.

In a statement issued to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) Tarigami termed the development unfortunate and urged the government to restore the pages at the earliest, asserting that the freedom of the press is protected under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution, which guarantees the freedom of speech and expression.

He stated that credible and professionally run media outlets play a vital role in disseminating verified information, particularly during sensitive situations. He added that if there were objections to any specific report, the authorities could have sought clarification or invoked lawful remedies.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelHe further noted that curtailing the platforms of established media outlets is neither a constructive approach nor in keeping with democratic practice.

Referring to reports that the pages were taken down following coverage of protests, he argued that it is the duty of media organizations to report on the ground situation. Restricting established news platforms, he said, does not necessarily curb misinformation and may instead create space for unverified sources to circulate misleading content.

The CPI(M) leader also expressed concern over the registration of FIRs against MP Ruhullah Mehdi and others, urging the authorities to ensure that dissenting voices are not silenced and that lawful and peaceful expression is respected in line with constitutional guarantees. (KNS)