The Cogito Media Foundation (CMF) has condemned the alleged assault and harassment of journalists Nafeesa Khan and Shaheen Khan by Delhi Police while they were attempting to question Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
The two independent Muslim women journalists, associated with 4 PM News Network, have alleged that Delhi Police detained and assaulted them in south Delhi on Thursday, September 3, while they were carrying out their reporting duties.
Journalists Allege Assault After Identifying as Muslims
According to the journalists, the police action was linked to their Muslim identity and their reporting.
Shaheen Khan alleged that she was assaulted after attempting to question Rekha Gupta. 4 PM News Network said in a post on X that police personnel allegedly grabbed Shaheen, dragged her to a police station and beat her.
“She further alleges that when the police officers asked for her name and heard ‘Khan’ in it, the assault against her intensified,” the news network said.
CMF said the journalists were allegedly subjected to further harassment after their Muslim identity became known.
“Press freedom cannot survive when journalists are punished for asking questions,” the foundation said.
Journalists Seek Medical Examination
Speaking to PTI, Shaheen and Nafisa said they were on their way to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for medical examinations and to obtain their medico-legal certificates (MLCs).
A video shared online also shows Shaheen making allegations against police personnel while an officer is seen sitting at a desk.
CMF has demanded an impartial investigation into the incident and strict action against the police personnel found responsible. The foundation said journalists must be allowed to question public officials without fear of harassment or retaliation.
