10 newspapers dis-empanelled by Information Department in Kashmir

SRINAGAR — The Department of Information and Public Relations in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday dis-empaneled around 10 newspapers in Kashmir for not following the proper “rules and regulations” of newspaper publication.

Joint Director Information said that there were many complaints received by the Directorate of Information against some newspapers, published both in Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

He said that the complaints were regarding the content being carried, publication issues, advertisement policies and media policy, which these newspapers were not following and more importantly, the availability of newspapers.

“Some of the newspapers had made mockery of publication. In this regard, an Empanelment Committee met last month, where these issues were discussed,” he said.

He informed that in Kashmir division, there are around 18 newspapers which came under the scrutiny and out of which 10 newspapers, who had stopped the publications have been suspended and dis-empanelled by the Information Department.

“Eight newspapers have been sent notices, but before the suspension, they will be given a chance to be heard and then after that the due course of action will follow,” he added.

He also said that in Jammu, there are more than 30 newspapers, some of them have been suspended and dis-empanelled and some have been issued the notices.

On being asked about the reports of dis-empanelment of Greater Kashmir and Kashmir Uzma, Joint Director Information said that the Empanelment Committee which met last month discussed those newspapers only which were not following the standards of publication and other policies and action has been taken against those only.

Regarding Greater Kashmir and Kashmir Uzma, he said, “We have no instructions as of now.”