Nagpur: Beware rowdies. Now, assaulting journalists could prove dear. Government has prepared draft of the proposed law for protection of scribes. According to the law, assault on journalists or newspapers or news channels could fetch three years’ rigorous imprisonment and fine of Rs 50,000 to the perpetrators.
Moreover, if the property gets damaged in the attack, the guilty will have to pay the compensation in double amount. If the attackers hesitate to pay the compensation, a provision has been made on ways and means to recover the amounts. The journalists, on other hand, would not be spared of stick if they misuse the law and file false against someone. A provision to impose six months’ imprisonment has been made in the law. Several other provisions have been drafted that could push the erring scribes to the edge.
The law has been named the Maharashtra Journalists, Media Persons and News-based Electronic Media Houses or News Stations or Newspaper Establishment (Prevention of Violent Attack and Damage or Loss to Property) Act, 2015. The draft of the proposed law has been sent to the Opposition parties for their perusal.
