Journalists across Assam have strongly condemned the Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IIT-G) for its decision to bar media personnel from entering the campus following the tragic death of a student, allegedly by suicide, on 9th September. Both the National Correspondents Group, Assam, and the Gauhati Press Club (GPC) have voiced their concerns, accusing the institution of infringing on press freedoms at a critical time.
The National Correspondents Group issued a statement on 11th September expressing their alarm over the IIT-G’s directive, which prevented journalists from accessing the campus in the aftermath of the incident. According to the group, the decision to restrict media entry at a time when accurate and sensitive reporting is crucial is a direct infringement on the rights of journalists, who play an essential role in keeping the public informed. The group also criticised the institute’s stance that the director would meet the media at a later date, arguing that such a delay undermines the urgency and transparency required in such tragic situations.
“We condemn the IIT-G authorities for taking this step and issuing a statement that contradicts the fundamental principles of journalism, which is factual reporting from the ground,” said the National Correspondents Group in its statement. The group further demanded a formal apology from the institute, stating that until such an apology is issued within 24 hours, journalists will boycott IIT-G events and refuse to use any press releases from the institution.
In a separate statement, the Gauhati Press Club (GPC) also expressed its dismay over IIT-G’s actions. The GPC’s President, Sushmita Goswami, and General Secretary, Sanjoy Ray, called the institution’s decision to prevent mediapersons from entering the campus unacceptable. “Attempting to treat mediapersons as puppets to publish news at their convenience is highly condemnable,” they stated, emphasising that the media plays a vital role in addressing public concerns and ensuring accountability, particularly in times of crisis.
The GPC added that instead of blocking out the media, IIT-G should have taken this opportunity to address public concerns regarding student welfare. “At a time when questions are being raised about the wellbeing of students at IIT-G, the authorities should have been forthcoming in assuaging all apprehensions through the media. It is with deep regret that the GPC notes the authorities’ decision to shut out the media at such a crucial time,” the GPC said.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
The press club has called on IIT-G authorities to lift the “unwarranted ban” immediately and allow the media to perform its duties without hindrance. Both journalist groups have signalled that they will continue to press for transparency and accountability from the institute in the handling of this sensitive issue.
The tragic incident and subsequent student protests have raised serious concerns about mental health and wellbeing on campus. While the authorities have yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing these issues, the media ban has only fuelled speculation and public unease. Journalists are now calling for greater openness from the institution and are prepared to hold IIT-G accountable for any attempts to silence the free press.
Also read | Tripura: 21-yr-old allegedly thrashed to death after failed elopement bid