Journalists' union calls for safety law and revival of Working Journalists Act

Journalists' unions across India have intensified calls for legislative measures to safeguard media workers, pressing for a dedicated safety framework and the reinstatement of the Working Journalists Act that once provided statutory protections to the profession.

The union representatives have highlighted escalating incidents of harassment, intimidation, and violence targeting journalists covering sensitive political and social issues. They argue that existing legal frameworks have proven inadequate in protecting media professionals from physical threats and administrative pressure.

The demand for revival of the Working Journalists Act comes as the union seeks to restore statutory provisions that previously governed working conditions, wages, and job security for journalists across print and electronic media. The act, which lapsed in recent decades, had established minimum standards for the profession across India.

Union leaders have stressed that a comprehensive safety law should include provisions for legal aid, workplace security protocols, and mechanisms for swift intervention in cases of journalist harassment. They have called on the government to prioritize media safety alongside existing press freedom initiatives.

The push reflects broader concerns within India's media community regarding the professional environment and job security for journalists, particularly those reporting from conflict zones and politically sensitive areas.