Separate law needed to deal with killings of journalists: PCI

The Press Council of India (PCI) has insisted on a separate legislation to fast track cases which concern killings of journalists.
"We plan to suggest a separate law to protect journalists in the country who face the burnt of extremists' violence and other form of attacks," Chairman of PCI's Committee for the Safety of Journalists Kosuri Amarnath told reporters here today.
He was talking to reporters after the PCI held its full council meeting in Goa today led by Chairman Justice (Retired) Markandeya Katju.
Amarnath said that attacks on journalists especially in North Eastern states is a cause of concern.

In Chhatisgarh, four journalists were killed last year, he said, adding that a total of 25 journalists lost their lives in Manipur and 26 journalists were killed in Assam during the last 12 years.
"Not even a single person has been convicted so far for killing a journalist," he said.

Amarnath said that a separate law should ensure that cases related to journalists are fast tracked.
"J Dey (Mumbai-based journalist) was killed two and half years ago and the case is still at the preliminary stage," he said.
The PCI member said that the law should be stringent and culprits should be punished as early as possible.

The PCI wants the law to include a clause that if a journalist is killed and he also happens to be the sole bread winner, his family member should be given a job.
"Journalists might not be public servants, but they serve the public through their work," Amarnath commented.
He said that newspaper managements refuse to take responsibility of journalists' families, after they are killed or attacked.