Srinagar, 4th September 2026: Shaista Akhter, State President, Mahila Morcha, National Loktantrik Party (NLP), Jammu & Kashmir, has strongly condemned the alleged assault and harassment of two Muslim women journalists at Saket Police Station, New Delhi, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable in a democratic society.
Shaista Akhter expressed serious concern over reports that two women journalists were allegedly beaten and mistreated by Delhi Police personnel while they were carrying out their professional responsibilities. She said that if the allegations are established, such conduct by law-enforcement personnel cannot be tolerated and requires an impartial and time-bound inquiry.
“The police are entrusted with protecting citizens, not intimidating or assaulting them. Journalists must be allowed to perform their duties without fear, pressure, intimidation, or discrimination. If two women journalists were subjected to physical assault inside a police station, it is a matter of grave concern that demands accountability,” Shaista Akhter said.
She further emphasized that the identity or religion of a journalist must never become a basis for discrimination. Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of democracy, and journalists have the right to ask questions and report facts without fear of retaliation.
Shaista Akhter urged the Delhi Police authorities and the concerned senior officials to immediately conduct an independent investigation into the allegations, identify those responsible if wrongdoing is established, and ensure that the affected journalists receive justice.
She also appealed to the journalist fraternity and civil society to stand united in defence of press freedom, dignity of women, and the rule of law.
“A democratic government must be able to face questions. A democratic police force must respect journalists. And every citizen—irrespective of religion, gender, or profession—deserves dignity and protection under the law,” she said.
Shaista Akhter reiterated that the National Loktantrik Party (NLP) stands firmly for constitutional values, freedom of expression, women’s dignity, and an independent media.
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