Press Council issues protest guidelines

The Press Council of India has issued detailed guidelines to facilitate orderly and effective coverage of protests and demonstrations while promoting safety of media personnel.

Guidelines follow October tenth incidents

The guidelines were adopted days after journalists were detained or injured during the October tenth Delhi protests, emphasising ID, safety, ethics, and newsroom coordination.

Journalists must display valid ID

The guidelines advise journalists to visibly display a valid press identity card issued by their media organisation, or a valid Press Information Bureau accreditation card, or a State government Directorate of Information and Publicity accreditation…

Maintain neutrality and professionalism

Journalists must clearly identify themselves as journalists when approached by law enforcement, maintain neutrality and professionalism, and not participate in demonstrations or take sides.

“Do not participate in demonstrations, take sides, provoke confrontations, or interfere with protesters, counter-protesters, or police.”

Keep safe distance from confrontations

Journalists should maintain a reasonable and safe distance from confrontations, particularly when tensions escalate or police action is anticipated, and continuously reassess their position.

Carry emergency kit and protection

Journalists should carry a compact emergency kit with first-aid items, drinking water, high-protein snacks, flashlight, washcloth, and eye protection. Protective headgear and body armour may be considered based on assessed threat.

Maintain newsroom contact throughout

Newsrooms should designate a point of contact to monitor journalists' locations and respond to emergencies. Freelancers should ensure a trusted editor knows their location, assignment plan, and expected return time.

Report accurately and verify facts

Journalists must report events accurately, objectively, and impartially, distinguishing verified facts from allegations and opinions, and verifying information through multiple sources wherever possible.

Protect vulnerable people and privacy

Journalists should exercise particular care when filming or identifying minors, vulnerable individuals, injured people, and private citizens in distress, considering whether publication could expose them to harm or violate privacy.

Do not compromise operational security

Journalists should not broadcast or publish real-time police positions, tactical movements, or escape routes when doing so could compromise safety or operational security, and should not allow live-broadcast pressure to override safety.