10 Kashmir newspapers dis-empanelled for not following “rules and regulations”

Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Department of Information and Public Relations on Friday dis-empanelled around 10 newspapers in Kashmir for not following the proper “rules and regulations” of newspaper publication, KNO reported.

Quoting Joint Director Information, the news agency reported that there were many complaints from the Directorate of Information against some newspapers published both in Jammu and Kashmir divisions.

The complaints, he said, were regarding the content being carried, publication issues, advertisement policies and media policy which these newspapers were not following, and more importantly the availability of newspapers.

“Some of the newspapers had made the mockery of publication. In this regard, an empanelment committee met last month where these issues were discussed,” he said.

He informed that in Kashmir division, there are around 18 newspapers which came under the scrutiny out of which 10 newspapers, who had stopped the publications, have been suspended and dis-empanelled by the Information Department.

“Eight newspapers have been sent notices but before the suspension, they will be given the chance to be heard and the due course of action will follow afterwards,” he added.

He also said that in Jammu, there are more than 30 newspapers some of whom have been suspended and dis-empanelled while some have been issued notices.

On being asked about the reports of dis-empanelment of Greater Kashmir and Kashmir Uzma, Joint Director Information said that the Empanelment Committee which met last month discussed those newspapers only which were not following the standards of publication and other policies and action has been taken against those only.

He said regarding Greater Kashmir and Kashmir Uzma, “we have no instructions as of now.” (KNO)