The Delhi Police on Monday issued a set of guidelines for journalists covering protests, asking media personnel to carry valid identity cards, keep them visibly displayed, avoid obstructing police operations, and maintain a reasonable distance during tense situations.

The advisory follows complaints by three female journalists who accused Delhi police officers of sexual harassment during Saturday's protest against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar at Jantar Mantar.

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Guidelines For Journalists

In a post on X with the hashtag #EthicsofJournalism, the Delhi Police said, "The story matters, so does how you get it!" while outlining a four-point directive:

  • "All journalists assigned to cover protests are advised to carry valid identity cards issued by their respective organisations and/or valid PIB/DIP accreditation cards."
  • "They should keep their identification cards visibly displayed at all times to facilitate identification by law enforcement agencies present at the site."
  • "They should also ensure that their presence or activities do not obstruct police operations or the movement of law enforcement personnel."
  • "During tense situations, journalists present at the site should maintain a reasonable and safe distance while covering and recording the proceedings. They should position themselves in a manner that clearly distinguishes them from protesters."

Female Journalists Allege Sexual Harassment

Three female journalists have accused Delhi police officers of sexual harassment during Saturday's protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar at Jantar Mantar. The Delhi Police said that they have received the complaints and transferred them to the Crime Branch for further enquiry.

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"Baseless And Misleading"

Responding to allegations surrounding the incident, the Delhi Police said, "Some social media handles are claiming that female protesters were subjected to physical assault. These allegations are baseless and misleading. Female protesters are handled by female staff and are treated with dignity and due regard. Detentions and releases are carried out in accordance with the applicable law and prescribed procedures. Male protesters who were detained were released within the stipulated time period, following due process of law. Any claim suggesting otherwise is factually incorrect and does not reflect the actual sequence of events."