Agartala, Feb 16: Serious allegations have surfaced regarding threats issued against journalist Shanit Debroy, even as police are yet to register FIRs in connection with the incidents, despite complaints being lodged more than 48 hours ago.
According to reports, the controversy began after statements allegedly made by the Acting Speaker of the Assembly during a public programme, where he is accused of issuing threats using a microphone.
Questions have been raised in certain quarters over whether a constitutional position permits such remarks and whether any individual is above the law.
It has also been alleged that Shanit Debroy filed a complaint at AD Nagar Police Station regarding the threat, but an FIR has not yet been registered. In another incident described as unprecedented, Debroy was allegedly threatened in front of the residence of a senior editor. However, police action is reportedly still awaited.
Further allegations claim that a poster bearing a cross mark over the journalist’s photograph was put up, which supporters have described as an indirect threat to his life. A complaint in this regard was reportedly submitted to the concerned police station, but no FIR has been registered so far.
Meanwhile, a separate controversy has emerged involving a ruling party MLA. A television media had reportedly aired a story alleging that the MLA possesses Bangladeshi citizenship. Supporters of the MLA have termed the report defamatory. Observers have stated that if the report is incorrect, the matter should be addressed through lawful protest or legal proceedings. However, allegations have also surfaced that in the name of protest, attempts are being made to malign the editor of the concerned television channel.
Police officials have not yet issued an official statement regarding the delay in registering the FIRs. The situation continues to draw attention from media and civil society circles.
The controversy surrounding allegations against a ruling party MLA and a television media editor has further intensified, with fresh claims and counter-claims emerging from both sides.
They have alleged that instead of addressing the issue directly, attempts are being made to deflect attention by targeting the editor who aired the report.
Supporters of the editor have alleged that defamatory remarks are being made against him and have termed such actions as an attempt to intimidate the media. They argue that just as journalists are bound by legal and ethical standards in their reporting, elected representatives are also accountable for their public statements and actions.
The matter has also taken a legal turn. According to sources, the editor of the television channel has reportedly filed six complaints in connection with the alleged threats and defamation. However, it is claimed that none of the cases have been formally registered by the police so far.
A delegation of journalists recently met the Director General of State Police, seeking intervention in the matter. Although assurances were reportedly given during the meeting, complainants allege that no FIR has been registered even after 48 hours, and no official statement has yet been issued by the police headquarters.
Police authorities have not made any formal comment on the allegations at the time of filing this report. The issue continues to draw attention within media and political circles across the state.
