Journalist Organizations Decry Police Actions During UNI Office Sealing
The Press Club of India (PCI) has issued a forceful condemnation of what it describes as the "manhandling" and "excessive use of force" by authorities during the sealing of the United News of India (UNI) premises in Delhi. The incident, which occurred on March 21, 2026, has sparked widespread outrage among media professionals and press freedom advocates across the country.
Strongest Possible Condemnation from Press Club
In an official statement released shortly after the incident, the PCI condemned in the "strongest possible terms" what it characterized as "highhandedness unleashed on the journalists, including women workers" by the authorities. The organization emphasized that such actions represent a serious threat to press freedom and the safety of media personnel performing their professional duties.
The PCI statement highlighted several concerning aspects of the operation:
- Alleged physical manhandling of journalists present at the UNI office
- Reports of excessive force being used against media workers
- Particular concern about the treatment of women journalists during the incident
- The broader implications for press freedom in India
Details of the Sealing Operation
While specific details about the reasons for sealing the UNI premises remain unclear, eyewitness accounts describe a tense situation where authorities reportedly used disproportionate force against journalists who were present at the location. The incident has raised serious questions about the methods employed during such administrative actions and the protection of journalists' rights.
Multiple journalist bodies have joined the PCI in expressing their concern about the incident, calling for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the authorities involved. The organizations have emphasized that journalists must be allowed to perform their work without fear of physical intimidation or violence from any quarter.
Broader Implications for Media Freedom
The incident comes at a time when press freedom in India has been under increased scrutiny both domestically and internationally. Journalist organizations argue that such actions create a chilling effect on media reporting and undermine the fundamental principles of a democratic society where a free press serves as a crucial check on power.
The condemnation from the PCI and other journalist bodies represents a significant show of solidarity within the media community. These organizations are calling for:
- Immediate accountability for those responsible for the alleged excessive force
- Clear guidelines for interactions between authorities and journalists during such operations
- Assurances that similar incidents will not occur in the future
- Protection of journalists' rights to report without interference or intimidation
The response from government authorities regarding these allegations is currently awaited, as the incident continues to generate discussion about the balance between administrative actions and the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of the press.
