New Delhi, June 2, 2025
Two independent journalists have approached the Supreme Court of India alleging they were illegally detained and physically assaulted by Madhya Pradesh Police personnel after publishing reports implicating local officials and contractors in illegal sand mining activities.
The petition, filed under Article 32 of the Constitution, seeks protection of press freedom and demands accountability for alleged custodial violence, asserting that the action against the journalists was retaliatory and intended to stifle investigative reporting on the sand mafia nexus in the state.
Allegations of Police Brutality
The journalists — whose names have been withheld in the petition citing threats to life and security — allege that they were picked up from their homes without warrant, held in unlawful custody, and subjected to physical assault and verbal abuse by police in a district in central Madhya Pradesh.
According to the plea, the attack came shortly after the publication of a series of reports detailing illegal sand extraction from riverbeds and the alleged involvement of local officials, including revenue and police authorities, in facilitating the operations.
One of the journalists reportedly sustained injuries requiring hospitalization. Medical records and photographs documenting the injuries have been annexed with the petition as evidence.
Relief Sought from the Apex Court
The petitioners have urged the Supreme Court to:
• Direct an independent probe by the CBI or a court-appointed SIT into the custodial violence.
• Issue guidelines to protect journalists reporting on environmental crimes and corruption.
• Provide compensation and witness protection, asserting a credible threat to their lives post-reporting.
They argue that the incident reflects a “systematic pattern of coercion” against reporters who expose illegal mining operations, which remain a significant environmental and law enforcement concern across India.
Senior advocate Colin Gonsalves, appearing for the petitioners, submitted that the case is emblematic of the increasing hostility journalists face while covering public interest issues, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas.
“When journalists are beaten into silence, it is not just the press thatsuffers — it is democracy itself that is wounded,” the petition states.
Supreme Court Response Pending
The Supreme Court has admitted the plea and issued notice to the Madhya Pradesh Government, seeking a response within two weeks. The Court emphasized that freedom of the press is a vital constitutional value, and any attack on journalists would be treated with utmost seriousness.
The matter is likely to be listed for hearing later this month.
