05/09/2026
JOURNALISTS UNION OF SIKKIM (JUS)
PRESS RELEASE
Gangtok, September 5, 2026;
The Journalists Union of Sikkim expresses serious concern over two separate incidents reported in Delhi involving journalists while carrying out their professional duties.
In the first incident, two women journalists, Shaheen Khan and Nafisa Khan, have alleged that they were detained and assaulted by Delhi Police personnel at Saket Police Station on September 3, 2026, while covering a public event in South Delhi.
According to reports, the journalists, who were on assignment for 4PM News Network, alleged that they were taken to Saket Police Station and physically assaulted. They have also raised allegations concerning identity and community-based remarks during the incident.
Delhi Police has denied the allegations, describing them as baseless and factually incorrect. Police have stated that the journalists were taken to the police station after their scooter allegedly obstructed a designated VVIP security route and that repeated instructions to move it were not followed. Police have also denied that the action was related to the journalists attempting to question political leaders.
Given the conflicting accounts, the JUS calls for a fair, transparent and impartial inquiry into the matter. The Union urges the competent authorities to preserve and examine all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage and other available records, and to record the statements of all concerned parties.
In a separate incident, the Union is also concerned over reports of alleged assault, intimidation and obstruction of journalists while they were covering protests at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.
The JUS stresses that journalists covering public demonstrations must be able to carry out their professional responsibilities without fear of physical violence, threats or intimidation. At the same time, the Union recognises the importance of security arrangements and lawful restrictions at public events, particularly where high-security dignitaries are present.
The Union calls upon the concerned authorities to establish the facts in both incidents through due process and to take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is established.
The JUS also urges journalists to follow lawful security and administrative instructions while performing their duties, and calls upon authorities and all stakeholders to ensure that such instructions are implemented without compromising the safety, dignity and professional independence of journalists.
The Journalists Union of Sikkim reiterates its commitment to press freedom, professional accountability, due process and the safety and dignity of journalists. Differences between journalists, authorities, political groups or members of the public must be addressed through lawful and democratic means, and not through violence or intimidation.
Issued by:
Publicity Secretary
Journalists Union of Sikkim
Gangtok, Sikkim
