By | Spotlight Correspondent
Kupwara: In an unusual and troubling development, a clerk at the District Information Office (DIO) Kupwara has reportedly turned into a source of distress for the journalist community. Tariq Ahmed Mir, a clerk in the department, has been accused of arbitrarily removing journalists from the official WhatsApp group and allegedly using inappropriate language in personal calls.
Mir Iqbal, a multimedia reporter with The Spotlight, stated that Tariq Ahmed Mir has been creating an environment of fear and pressure among journalists. “I had reported a news piece regarding the introduction of new criminal laws, stating that the police had organized the program. When I was informed that the district administration had actually conducted the event, I promptly requested a correction. Despite this, Tariq Ahmed Mir removed me from the WhatsApp group, citing improper reporting,” said Iqbal.
Recalling a previous incident, Iqbal added that during his assignment with an election flying squad responsible for monitoring violations of the Model Code of Conduct, he witnessed firsthand the clerk’s aggressive behavior. “A candidate’s campaign materials were confiscated for violating election guidelines. As a videographer attached to the squad, I was merely documenting the proceedings. However, Tariq Ahmed Mir called me in an outrage, hurled abuses, and even threatened to bury me underground and file an FIR against me,” Iqbal alleged. Despite raising concerns with the magistrate at the time, no action was taken against Mir.
Another journalist, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed that Tariq removed him from the WhatsApp group after he published a report critical of the administration. “I believe the administration would never authorize a clerk at the DIO to wield such unchecked power. However, immediate action is needed to hold him accountable,” he said.
The Director of News at The Spotlight in his memo to the Media Observer team, denouncing the incident as unprecedented and alarming. “It is appalling to witness such authoritarian behavior from a government employee. This is what happens when small men find themselves in positions of power,” the statement read.
According to sources, Tariq Ahmed Mir has allegedly remained in the same office for over six years, despite routine administrative transfers being a standard practice.
When contacted, ACD Kupwara, Muzaffar Ahmad Sheikh (JKAS)—who also holds additional charge of the DIO—stated that this was the first time such allegations had been brought to his notice. “I have just received this information, and I will ensure that this issue is addressed. I will direct the concerned authorities to take the necessary steps to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future,” Sheikh assured.
The journalist community in Kupwara is now calling for a thorough investigation and immediate administrative action to prevent further intimidation and ensure a fair working environment for media professionals in the region.
