(a) whether the number of attacks on journalists are on the rise in recent years and several journalists have also been killed in such attacks;
(b) if so, the number of such attacks on journalists reported along with the number of journalists killed in these attacks during the last three years; and
(c) the steps being taken by the Government to ensure the security of journalists?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
(SHRI HANSRAJ GANGARAM AHIR)
(a) to (c): A Statement is laid on the Table of the House.
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STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO THE LOK SABHA STARRED QUESTION NO.*521 FOR 11.4.2017.
(a) to (b): Data on attacks on media persons (under section 325, 326, 326A & 326B IPC) is maintained by NCRB since 2014. State/UT wise cases registered and persons arrested is at Annexure.
(c): ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ are State subjects under the seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India. The existing laws are adequate for protection of citizens including journalists. The Press Council of India takes prompt action on receipt of specific complaints from affected persons. Representations on providing security are received from or on behalf of individuals, including journalists. All such representations are examined and based on inputs received regarding threat assessment, required action is taken.
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