EGI expresses serious concern over alleged heckling, roughing up of journalist during Congress rally in UP

Srinagar, Feb 22: Editors Guild of India (EGI) on Thursday expressed serious concern over alleged heckling and roughing up of a TV journalist during Congress rally Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh.

The journalistic body in a statement issued said, "The Editors Guild of India notes with concern, a recent incident in Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, where a TV journalist was allegedly heckled by a crowd during Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra".

"Reports in a section of the media say that Mr. Shiv Prasad Yadav, a television journalist working with India News was roughed up while Mr. Gandhi was addressing the crowd on Tuesday," it said.

It added that a  journalist's safety is paramount, and the Editors Guild of India has taken note of the alleged incident with concern.

The EGI urged all political parties and leaders to exercise caution, particularly during election season when tempers can run high and ensure that no individual is put in harm's way.

"A vibrant democracy must always provide journalists with the safety and freedom to report fearlessly, without endangering self," it said.