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Multiple FIRs Registered in Assam After Scuffle at Prag News Office and Malow Ali
Jorhat, Assam: A series of disturbing incidents unfolded in Assam, leading to the registration of multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) involving individuals from Prag News Channel and other parties. The FIRs were filed under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), addressing charges of assault, harassment, defamation, and more. The incidents have raised concerns over the dignity and safety of individuals, as well as the freedom of the media.
FIR No: 345/23 U/S 427/448/325/307/379/506/34 IPC - Registered on July 10, 2023, at 4 PM
Complainant: Utpal Boral
Accused: Joy Kishore Baishya, Tilak Baishya, Sanjib Baishya
Summary: The aforementioned accused allegedly attacked the complainant with a sharp weapon, with an intention to commit murder, at the office of Prag News in Jorhat.
FIR No: 346/23 U/S 325/294/506/34 IPC - Registered on July 10, 2023, at 4:10 PM
Complainant: Dr. Joy Kishore Baishya
Accused: Utpal Bora, reporter of Prag News
Summary: The complainant alleges assault and harassment by members of Prag News Channel, including Utpal Bora. The complainant further claims to have been attacked by 6-7 members of the channel.
FIR No: 347/23 U/S 294/354/506/500 IPC - Registered on July 10, 2023, at 8:50 PM
Complainant: (Name withheld)
Accused: Unknown reporter with white marks on the face and others
Summary: The complainant alleges that she and a friend were in the room of Ujjal Pegu, also a friend, on July 9, 2023. Suddenly, a cameraman accompanied by the police entered the room and began taking photos and videos without consent. Later, the cameraman allegedly distributed the video to various individuals, causing harm to their reputation.
FIR No: 359/23 U/S 120(B)/341/452/354/354(A)/354(B)/500/385/506/34 IPC - Registered on July 14, 2023, at 1:05 PM
Complainant: (Name withheld)
Accused: Utpal Bora and other members of Prag News
Summary: The complainant alleges that while they were at a friend's house in Malowali, Jorhat on July 9, 2023, several reporters forcefully entered their room, filmed them, and attempted to remove their clothing. The following day, reporters from Prag News allegedly threatened and demanded money to settle the issue. Subsequently, one Utpal Bora reposted the video, further tarnishing their reputation.
In response to these incidents, Assam Director General of Police (DGP) G.P. Singh tweeted, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The DGP highlighted that the matter involved two significant issues - the dignity and respect of women, and the safety of media offices and personnel, along with freedom of the media. As a result, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Incharge of Jorhat has been directed to supervise the investigation and ensure appropriate action in accordance with the law.
Reference scuffle at Malow Ali, Jorhat on July 9th 2023 and at Prag News channel office on July 10th 2023 - Four FIRs have been registered at Jorhat Police Station by concerned parties under various sections of law. Since the matter concerns two significant issues - 1. Dignity,… pic.twitter.com/S97lHrbDBe
— GP Singh (@gpsinghips) July 15, 2023
These incidents have raised concerns about the safety and well-being of individuals, as well as the need for respect and accountability within the media industry. The ongoing investigations will shed further light on the details surrounding the incidents and determine the appropriate course of action.