Media Censorship after The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019: A Case Study in Kashmir

Freedom of expression has always been emphasized as an essential basis for the democratic functioning of any society. The democratic credentials of any State are judged by the extent of the freedom of Press/Media enjoys. It provides comprehensive and objective information of all aspects of the country’s social, political, economic and cultural life. The press is the fourth pillar of Democratic Nation that is ensured by its constitution; hence it is considered as the most important institution in the society. Article 370 of the Indian Constitution guaranteed the special status of erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir, was abrogated on August 5, 2019. The Government of India introduced the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act-2019 on August 6, 2019 and converted the State into two Union Territories viz Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Simultaneously Article 35 A empowering the Legislature to define the permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir was also nullified. While going through the process of Abrogation, complete communication blackout was set in motion thus making people more curious particularly the ones affiliated with Communication Departments be that Print or Electronic media. Therefore, the present study aims to trace out various Censorship laws being imposed on regional media in Jammu and Kashmir post Abrogation period. This Research will also determine whether the restrictions which are being imposed on media organizations in J&K are constitutionally valid or not. It also aims to analyze the status of regional press. The researcher conducts intensive interviews with Government officials, judicial experts and conduct survey among the journalists and Media managers to analyze various narratives on ground reality that is relevant to the study.