Ajay Sharma
Jammu Nov 9: Following directives from the administration has reportedly launched an extensive verification drive against ‘fake’ journalists across all districts.
According to sources, the administration has directed all District Development Commissioners (DDCs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to take strict action against individuals imitating as reporters without proper authorization or accreditation.
Meanwhile, the directive, issued through an official circular, has been widely welcomed by senior journalists and media professionals across the Union Territory.
“Many have hailed it as a long-awaited step to cleanse the media ecosystem, which has recently seen a surge in self-proclaimed journalists misusing the profession for personal or political gains,” said sources, adding that many professionals asserted that in several districts, including Rajouri, Poonch, and Jammu, untrained individuals have been operating ‘fake’ YouTube and Facebook channels under the guise of bonafide journalism.
These individuals, they alleged, have been accused of blackmailing officials, spreading misinformation, and damaging the credibility of the media fraternity. Several such cases, according to sources, are already under investigation.
They have urged the administration and District Information Officers (DIOs) to take stringent action against those running disguised media outlets or falsely claiming to be journalists.
“Unchecked practices of fake reporting can severely harm public trust and the reputation of genuine media professionals,” said sources, adding that only verified and authorized journalists must be recognized.
They said, all District Information Officers (DIOs) across Jammu and Kashmir should also be directed to verify which journalists and media organizations are genuine and bonafide.
