Journalists allege misbehaviour by ASI, demand action

Angry over alleged misbehaviour by an ASI of Faridabad police with a reporter of a Hindi daily over coverage of situation in riot-hit Atali village, journalists' association today submitted a memorandum demanding strict action against erring police official.
The 'City Press club' has also threatened agitation, if no action was taken against the guilty official, but later decided to stayed it for two days after assurance of action from senior police officials.
The incident happened on June 9, when a reporter of a Hindi daily went to Atali village to see the situation after a riot 15-days ago.
While he was returning from village, he was stopped by an ASI Virendra posted at the exit of the village, who allegedly was scolded the reporter and forced him to delete the pictures in his mobile, officials said.

He was also allegedly asked to write a positive story about the village or face an action, and taken to the ACP, who also threatened to put him behind bars.
Yesterday, the "City Press Club" Faridabad submitted a memorandum to the Additional Deputy Commissioner address to the Chief Minister and the Governor narrating the incident and asking for an immediate action against the erring officers.

The memorandum was submitted by more than 50 journalists of Faridabad associated with different publications and electronic channels.
ADC assured to discuss the matter with Deputy Commissioner and the Commissioner of Police, but when they got no response from police, Press Club decided to take out a car rally by all journalists from the city to the village.

Later, a meeting with the ACP Vishnu Dayal was arranged by the senior officials, who assured a disciplinary action against the ASI within two days.
Following which City Press Club has postponed their protest for two days.
President of the Club Bijendra Bansal said, "Faridabad media is responsible enough that we don't want to make it an issue. However, we cannot compromise on the freedom of press. We have been asked to stay any action for two days, which we have agreed. Further action, if any, would be taken after Saturday".