Taniya Shah
Srinagar, Nov 6:
Following a directive from the Department of Information, Jammu and Kashmir, district information offices across the Valley have begun collecting detailed background information on journalists working within their jurisdictions, including six months’ salary slips, organisational affiliations, and social media handles.
The move stems from a circular issued on October 31 by the Joint Director, Information, Kashmir, who cited “repeated complaints” from field officers and instructed all District Information Officers (DIOs) to “exercise heightened vigilance” and maintain an updated and verified list of accredited, authorised, and bona fide media persons operating in each district.
The directive further instructed DIOs to keep a close watch on any person or entity “misusing media credentials, indulging in coercion, or attempting to malign officials or institutions for personal or financial gain.” It also called for immediate reporting of such cases and coordination with Deputy Commissioners and police authorities for legal and administrative action, along with submission of factual details to the Directorate without delay.
In line with the directive, several district offices have issued specific notices seeking verification documents from journalists. In Shopian, the DIO has asked reporters to submit their organisational affiliation or appointment letters, salary statements for the past six months, academic qualification certificates, and links to their Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube accounts. Officials confirmed that similar instructions have been circulated in Baramulla and Bandipore, while “the same process is expected to follow in other districts shortly.”
In Kupwara, the DIO issued a formal order on November 3 outlining that the measure aims to “protect the sanctity of journalism,” counter the “growing menace of fake journalists,” and create a transparent system for bona fide media professionals. The order added that only journalists validated and authenticated by the DIO’s office will be permitted to attend official government events, press conferences, and VIP visits within the district.
The directive also mandates DIOs to submit a “periodical vigilance note” highlighting instances of misuse, field-level findings, and preventive measures undertaken.
According to officials within the Information Department, the exercise has been deemed necessary in light of the rapid growth of social media-based reporting and the expansion of locally operated digital news platforms. The officials maintained that the step seeks to ensure credibility and professional standards within the media fraternity.
