Press Council of India izda smernice za novinarje, ki pokrivajo proteste, poudarja varnost in nevtralnost

The Press Council of India (PCI) has issued detailed guidelines aimed at ensuring the safety of journalists covering protests and demonstrations, while promoting responsible reporting and better coordination with law enforcement authorities. The guidelines emphasize the importance of maintaining neutrality, displaying valid press identification, and adhering to safety protocols during volatile situations. The document provides specific advice on how journalists should behave in the field, including wearing press identity cards securely, avoiding confrontation, and maintaining a safe distance from potential dangers such as tear gas or police actions. The guidelines highlight the necessity for journalists to visibly display a valid press identity card issued by their media organization, a Press Information Bureau (PIB) accreditation card, or a State government Directorate of Information and Publicity accreditation card. When using a lanyard, it should be worn and secured carefully to minimize the risk of entanglement during crowd movement or confrontations. Journalists are instructed to clearly and calmly identify themselves as such when approached by law enforcement personnel, and to maintain neutrality and professionalism throughout their assignments. The PCI advises journalists to remain respectful, follow police orders, avoid arguments during tense situations, and comply with lawful instructions, especially those issued for immediate safety reasons. They are encouraged to assert their press status calmly when necessary. Additionally, journalists are advised to maintain a reasonable and safe distance from confrontations, particularly when tensions escalate or police action is anticipated. They should not attach cameras or recording equipment to police barricades, vehicles, or other equipment in ways that obstruct movement or damage property. Journalists are further advised to move carefully through crowds, taking short steps to reduce the risk of falling or being trampled. They are encouraged to continuously reassess their position in relation to protesters, counter-protesters, police, and other potential sources of danger. Scanning the surroundings for changes in crowd behavior, approaching individuals, potential confrontations, changes in crowd noises, and emerging hazards is emphasized as a critical aspect of situational awareness. The guidelines recommend that journalists keep an escape route and safe locations in mind and update them as conditions change. In the presence of smoke or tear gas, they are advised to use visible landmarks and safe routes to leave the affected area without moving deeper into the crowd. For personal protection, the PCI suggests carrying a compact emergency kit containing basic first-aid items, essential personal medication, drinking water, high-protein snacks, a flashlight, a washcloth or hand towel, and eye protection or goggles. Depending on the assessed threat, suitable protective headgear and body armor should be considered, although protective equipment must not encourage unnecessary risk-taking. The PCI cautions journalists against touching, picking up, or attempting to move tear-gas canisters, flash-bang devices, or smoke grenades, noting that these items may remain hot, explode, or contain hazardous residue. Maintaining regular contact with their newsroom throughout the assignment is highlighted as crucial, with newsrooms advised to designate a point of contact to monitor journalists' locations and respond to emergencies. Freelancers are encouraged to ensure that a trusted editor or contact knows their location, assignment plan, and expected return time. Looking out for fellow journalists, particularly when working alone, and maintaining communication with colleagues whenever feasible is also emphasized. For planned demonstrations, media organizations are advised to coordinate with designated police and public information officers or press liaisons where feasible, to clarify communication protocols and identify any designated media staging areas. The PCI emphasizes the importance of accurate, objective, and impartial reporting, urging journalists to distinguish verified facts from allegations, opinions, and unconfirmed claims. Verification through multiple sources is encouraged, along with asking witnesses how they obtained their information. The guidelines also caution against broadcasting or publishing real-time police positions, tactical movements, or escape routes when doing so could compromise safety or operational security. Media professionals are reminded to prioritize fundamental safety considerations over the pressure to obtain exclusive footage.