Press Council of India issues safety guidelines for journalists covering protests

Press Council issues protest coverage guidelines, asks journalists to carry visible ID cards (Pic/Press Council of India)

Amid the ongoing agitation by CJP and opposition parties, the Press Council of India (PCI) expressed concern over the safety of media personnel. PCI has announced comprehensive set of guidelines for journalists covering protests and demonstrations, emphasising professional conduct, personal safety, and ethical reporting.

PCI notes that the guidelines seek to "facilitate the effective discharge of journalistic duties while promoting the safety of media personnel, responsible reporting and better coordination among journalists, media organisations and law enforcement authorities," as per ANI.

Press Council mandates journalists to carry identity cards

Under the section on Identification and Professional Conduct, the Council has further mandated that journalists carry valid identity cards issued by their media organisations or PIB/DIP accreditation, keeping them visibly displayed at all times via lanyards secured to minimise entanglement risks.

Highlighting the need for neutrality, the PCI guidelines also noted, "Maintain neutrality and professionalism. Do not participate in demonstrations, take sides, provoke confrontations, or interfere with protesters, counter-protesters, or police."

Furthermore, journalists have been advised to remain respectful, comply with lawful police orders during tense situations, and avoid unnecessary arguments while calmly asserting their press status.

PCI advises media personnel to maintain a reasonable distance

Addressing positioning and crowd safety, the council advised media persons to maintain a reasonable distance during escalating tensions or anticipated police action. The PCI stated, "Do not attach cameras or recording equipment to police barricades, vehicles, or equipment in ways that obstruct movement or damage property," as cited by ANI.

The advisory also outlines strict protocols for personal protective measures, recommending compact emergency kits equipped with basic first aid, drinking water, high-protein snacks, flashlights, and eye protection/goggles.

Crucially, the guidelines issued by the press body also noted, "Never touch, pick up, or attempt to move tear-gas canisters, flash-bang devices, or smoke grenades. They may remain hot, explode, or contain hazardous residue."

Press body directs media personnel not to publish real time police positions

Under ethical and responsible reporting, the PCI urged media professionals to verify information through multiple sources and treat statements from all quarters with equal scrutiny.

Highlighting operational security and sensitivity, the Council also directed, "Do not broadcast or publish real-time police positions, tactical movements, or escape routes when doing so could compromise safety or operational security." It also cautioned against letting exclusive footage pressures override fundamental safety considerations.

(With inputs from ANI)