The Karnataka government, led by Congress, has issued an order limiting the movement of media personnel within the State Legislature complex, Vidhan Soudha. Journalists are now required to conduct interviews and seek reactions from legislators only at a designated spot near the West Gate of Vidhana Soudha. The order also prohibits following Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, ministers, and other officials within the premises for comments.
The Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR) mandated that all media interactions with legislators take place solely at the designated location. Officials were instructed to ensure compliance by media persons, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing security at Vidhana Soudha also informed about the directive. The government has justified this move as essential for safety and security reasons.
Critics have raised concerns over press freedom, arguing that the order restricts freedom of expression and limits access to elected representatives within the legislative complex. Some opposition leaders believe that these restrictions could impede their ability to communicate openly with journalists on the premises. The controversy follows reports of a theft incident involving a DPAR staff member and the subsequent tightening of media access, which critics view as an attempt to divert attention from the alleged theft.
Congress legislator H. Ranganath expressed disapproval of the order, emphasizing that restricting media access is inappropriate. He highlighted the importance of the press in conveying opinions and public issues to the people, stating that safeguarding press freedom aligns with the party’s core values. BJP MLA S.R. Vishwanath condemned the order as an assault on democracy and freedom of speech, contrasting it with the previous BJP government’s policy of granting journalists access to various areas within the building.
Vishwanath criticized the government for targeting the media instead of addressing security lapses, labeling the restriction of journalists to a specific location near the West Gate as regressive. He called for the withdrawal of the order, emphasizing the need to enhance security measures rather than limiting media access. The Janata Dal (Secular) also criticized the move, accusing the ruling Congress of being uneasy with journalists asking probing questions and urging the Chief Minister to prioritize transparency over media suppression.
