(a) the number of journalists arrested under the provisions of Indian Penal Code, Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 since 2014, year-wise; and
(b) the number of journalists currently in jail who have not yet been convicted of any charges brought against them under the aforementioned laws, State-wise?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS
(SHRI NITYANAND RAI)
(a) & (b): ‘Police’ and ‘Public Order’ are State subjects under the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution of India and State Governments are responsible for Prevention, Detection and investigation of crimes and for prosecuting the criminals through their law enforcement agencies. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) does not maintain specific data with respect to arrest of journalists.
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L.S.US.Q NO. 130 FOR 02.02.2021
Central Government attaches highest importance to the safety and security of all residents of the country including journalists. The Ministry of Home Affairs have issued advisories to States and UTs, from time to time, to maintain law and order and ensure that any person who takes law into his/her own hand is punished promptly as per law. An advisory specifically on safety of journalists was issued to States/UTs on 20th October, 2017 requesting them to strictly enforce the law to ensure safety and security of media persons.
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