Registration of FIR is attack on freedom in HP: LOP

Himachalscape bureau February 22, 2025 2 minutes read

Shimla, Feb 22

Former Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition, Jai Ram Thakur, has strongly condemned the registration of an FIR by the state police, labeling it as an attack on media freedom.

The FIR was filed following a complaint by Superintendent of Police CID Rajesh Sharma, alleging the leakage of sensitive departmental information to the media. Thakur criticized the Sukhu government, accusing it of being directionless and authoritarian.

Thakur expressed his concerns over the state’s priorities, stating that while the government is busy investigating the so-called “Samosa Scandal,” more pressing issues like crime, drug abuse, and illegal mining are rampant.

He highlighted that in the past 50 days, 16 murders have occurred, and five youths have died due to drug overdoses in the last month alone. Thakur also pointed out that illegal mining is happening unabated, even near the SP office, with no action taken despite public complaints.

The former Chief Minister criticized the FIR as absurd and conspiratorial, suggesting that it is an attempt to suppress media freedom. He argued that the use of Section 353(2) of the Indian Judicial Code in the FIR is a move to intimidate the media and send a message that anyone criticizing the government will not be spared.

Thakur noted that over two dozen FIRs have already been filed against media personnel and ordinary citizens for speaking out against the government.

Thakur called on Chief Minister Sukhu to clarify how many sensitive cases have been leaked to the media and the impact of these leaks on the state’s sovereignty and internal security.

He also questioned the secrecy surrounding the investigation into the missing samosa and its relevance to public interest. Thakur urged the Chief Minister to abandon his authoritarian approach and focus on addressing the real issues faced by the people, such as drug abuse and illegal mining.

Thakur warned the government against its attempts to suppress media freedom and impose an undeclared emergency in the state. He emphasized that such tactics would not succeed and called for a more transparent and accountable administration.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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