The Press Council of India (PCI) is worried about the security of journalists in times of unrest and have issued comprehensive guidelines for journalists covering protests and demonstrations. All the recommendations focus on personal safety, on professional conduct, on neutrality and on responsible reporting in potentially volatile situations.
The Council says the rules will ensure that journalists can better do their job and at the same time get better coordination among journalists, news organisations and law enforcement.
Journalists Must Display Valid Identification
The Press Council of India has recommended that accredited journalists obtain valid ID cards from their media organisations or accreditation from Press Information Bureau (PIB) or Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIP) which should be worn during their work.
Guidelines cite the importance of the identification being clearly visible “at all times. Journalists are also being educated to tie their lanyards so as to reduce risk of entanglements in crowded conditions or during tension.
Neutrality and Professional Conduct Emphasised
The Council has emphasized that in covering the various demonstrations, neutrality is fundamental to all journalists. They are not to be a part of a protest, take sides, cause conflict or disrupt protesters, counter-protesters or police.
The guidelines also urge that news agencies do not show disrespect toward police in emergencies and during crises when they are handing down lawful directives. Journalists should refrain from unnecessary arguments and firmly assert their professionalism at times of need.
The recommendations aim to uphold the boundaries between reporting a demonstration and “being a part of” a demonstration. The Council says it is essential that journalists maintain a professional distance between themselves and the people or subjects they cover, both for their own safety issues and to ensure the coverage is credible.
Focus on Safety and Responsible Reporting
The guidelines by the PCI have come in the wake of worries concerning the dangers of working in the midst of a packed gathering of the public and or territories below unrest.
The Council strives to promote a safer working environment and a responsible and impartial reporting of news by setting expectations regarding identification, conduct and interaction with authorities.
The guidelines also emphasize a need for coordination between journalist and the media and between journalist and law enforcement agencies to enable media professionals to perform their reporting mission during the demonstrations.