Guwahati, April 11: The Aam Aadmi Party Assam unit has strongly criticised what it described as attempts to suppress media freedom in the state, accusing the government of targeting journalists and media institutions.
In a statement, the party expressed concern over what it termed as repeated attacks on the press, alleging that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma often reacts aggressively to critical questioning by journalists. The party claimed that such responses reflect an “authoritarian” approach to governance.
The statement further alleged that sections of the state’s media are being influenced through personal and familial connections, while independent voices are being pressured through the use of government machinery and intimidation tactics.
Announcing its protest, the party accused the administration of misusing official agencies to curb free speech. It specifically referred to an eviction notice issued by the Assam State Housing Board to Nitumoni Saikia, Editor-in-Chief of Pratidin Time, alleging that the move was politically motivated rather than administrative.
The party also cited incidents involving alleged attacks on media establishments, including the office of Asomiya Pratidin in Lakhimpur, claiming that such developments indicate shrinking space for dissenting opinions.
Highlighting what it described as a broader pattern, AAP alleged that senior journalists and media organisations are facing harassment through both administrative actions and street-level intimidation. It termed these actions a deliberate attempt to weaken the role of the press as a pillar of democracy.
Reiterating its stand, the party stated that freedom of the press is essential in a democratic setup and called for immediate measures to ensure the safety and independence of media professionals in Assam.
