Srinagar:The Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Government of Jammu and Kashmir, has issued a strong directive to all District Information Officers (DIOs) across the Kashmir Division to take strict measures against the misuse of media identity and cases of impersonation.
The directive, issued by Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari (JKAS), Joint Director Information, Kashmir as per communication, comes in the wake of repeated complaints from various departments, media houses, and public representatives regarding individuals posing as journalists without any formal accreditation or authorization.
According to the circular (No. INF/K-Estt.2091-98/2025 dated 31/10/2025), such persons have reportedly misused the name of media for blackmail, extortion, coercion of officials, and the circulation of unverified or defamatory content against public institutions and officers. In several cases, such individuals have been apprehended and booked, underscoring the gravity of the issue.
The Joint Director has directed all DIOs to maintain and regularly update a verified list of accredited and authorized journalists operating within their districts, in consultation with DIPR and media organizations. Official communications, press releases, and invitations are to be shared only with verified journalists or media outlets.
The order further instructs DIOs to closely monitor and immediately report any misuse of media credentials to the concerned Deputy Commissioners and Police authorities for coordinated legal and administrative action. Regular vigilance notes and reports are also to be submitted to the DIPR headquarters.
In addition, local media houses and editors have been urged to exercise due diligence while appointing correspondents, freelancers, or stringers — ensuring proper verification, authorization letters, and ID cards are issued. The DIPR has asked editors to disassociate publicly from individuals misusing their organization’s name and to uphold journalistic ethics as prescribed by the Press Council of India and DIPR guidelines.
The directive emphasizes collective responsibility and calls for strict adherence to professional standards to protect the credibility of journalism and maintain public trust in media institutions.(KINS)
