TDP MLA Issues Threat to Journalists Over 'False News'
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On January 30, a TDP MLA from Andhra Pradesh, Gummanur Jayaram, stirred controversy by threatening journalists who reported 'false news' about him and his family. His statements drew widespread condemnation from journalist associations and TDP leadership.
Key Takeaways
- Gummanur Jayaram threatened journalists regarding ‘false news’.
- His video went viral on social media.
- TDP leadership condemned his actions.
- Journalists demand retraction of threats.
- Legal action is advised instead of intimidation.
Amaravati, Jan 30 (NationPress) A member of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Andhra Pradesh has ignited controversy by issuing threats to journalists disseminating ‘false information’ about him and his relatives. Gummanur Jayaram, the representative for the Guntakal constituency, cautioned reporters that should they publish ‘false information’ regarding him or his sibling, he would force them to sleep on train tracks.
Jayaram, who has held the position of minister in the past, warned journalists of significant repercussions. His video threatening media personnel gained traction on social media platforms.
“Consider your words carefully before writing about me and my brother. If you highlight my error, I will amend it. Otherwise, I will make you sleep on train tracks,” he cautioned.
The ruling party MLA also urged journalists to address their inquiries directly to him, asserting that he would not accept any negative portrayals.
Jayaram accused some journalists of spreading ‘false news’ regarding his alleged involvement in land encroachments. He emphasized that he does not regard the media highly.
Following a media outlet's reports against him and his family, Jayaram issued a caution to the press.
In the meantime, TDP leadership has reacted strongly to Jayaram's threats against journalists, expressing their discontent with the MLA's statements.
TDP state president P. Srinivasa Rao reached out to Jayaram via phone, clarifying that such threats are not consistent with the values of TDP.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has also reportedly conveyed his dissatisfaction with Jayaram's conduct.
Journalist associations have condemned the MLA's blatant threats and are urging him to retract his statements.
The Andhra Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) released a statement denouncing the MLA's actions, asserting that if he believes certain media reports are inaccurate, he should pursue legal remedies, rather than resorting to threats against journalists.
