What Warning Did NCW Chief Give to Maratha Quota Protesters Regarding Women Journalists?
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Synopsis
In a crucial statement, NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar addresses the alarming reports of women journalists facing harassment during Maratha quota protests in Mumbai. She emphasizes the importance of respecting the rights of media professionals and ensuring peaceful demonstrations without causing distress to others.
Key Takeaways
- Respect for Journalists: Protesters must honor the work and safety of journalists.
- Peaceful Protests: The right to protest should not infringe upon the rights of others.
- NCW’s Role: The National Commission for Women advocates for the protection of women journalists.
- Legal Oversight: The Bombay High Court is actively monitoring the situation.
- Community Responsibility: Agitators should behave responsibly and avoid harassment.
Mumbai, Sep 2 (NationPress) In response to the reported harassment of women journalists by Maratha quota protestors in Mumbai, Vijaya Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, issued a warning to protesters on Tuesday. An official reported that Rahatkar was alerted by a complaint from the TV Journalists Association, Mumbai, emphasizing that the right to engage in peaceful protests should not be exploited to subject journalists to mental distress while they are fulfilling their responsibilities.
In a statement posted on X, the NCW Chairperson remarked, “During the ongoing protests for Maratha reservation in Mumbai, there have been instances where women journalists have been pushed, their clothing has been tugged at, and boom mics have been forcibly taken away... Numerous journalist organizations have raised concerns about such incidents.”
She added, “It's unacceptable to trouble journalists and cameramen who are diligently working, often under challenging conditions. While everyone has the right to protest, it is crucial to ensure that this does not inflict inconvenience or psychological hardship on others.”
Rahatkar also recognized the cautionary advice given by Manoj Jarange-Patil to the protesters as being appropriate.
“Protesters should heed his advice and show proper respect towards women journalists and others,” she emphasized.
In a letter addressed to Jarange-Patil and shared with the NCW Chairperson, the Association reported, “Media personnel in Mumbai, particularly women journalists, are facing harassment from your activists. When covering the story, your activists have been pushing, pulling at clothing, and forcibly seizing boom mics... Women journalists are being surrounded by your activists.”
“They are attempting to molest them with inappropriate comments... Media representatives in Mumbai are reporting on your movement day and night, even in the rain... Yet, your activists are behaving poorly in the crowds, harassing journalists and cameramen,” stated the letter dated August 31.
Earlier, the Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for its failure to clear nearly 5,000 vehicles belonging to Maratha quota protesters that are obstructing roads in Mumbai.
On the same day, the Mumbai Police issued a notice to Jarange-Patil, demanding that he vacate Azad Maidan promptly, citing repeated violations by his supporters as the reason for the discontinuation of protest permission.
Point of View
It is vital to uphold the principle that all forms of protest must be carried out with dignity and respect for all individuals. The harassment of women journalists is not only unacceptable but also undermines the freedom of the press, which is essential in any democracy. It is crucial that we advocate for the safety of journalists while recognizing the rights of those protesting.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the NCW Chairperson's warning?
The warning was prompted by reports of harassment faced by women journalists during the Maratha quota protests.
What specific incidents of harassment were reported?
Women journalists reported being pushed, having their clothes pulled, and facing intimidation from protesters while covering the event.
What is the stance of the National Commission for Women?
The NCW emphasizes the need for peaceful protests that do not cause mental distress or inconvenience to others, especially journalists performing their duties.
Who is Manoj Jarange-Patil?
Manoj Jarange-Patil is a key figure among the protesters, who has advised demonstrators to respect the rights of journalists.
What actions have been taken by the Bombay High Court?
The Bombay High Court criticized the Maharashtra government for its failure to manage the traffic issues caused by the protest vehicles.
