The draft Chhattisgarh Protection of Media Persons Act is a legislative proposal aimed at ensuring the safety and security of journalists in the Indian state of Chhattisgarh. Recognizing the broad spectrum of individuals contributing to the media landscape, this proposed law seeks to extend its protective measures beyond traditional journalists to include a wider array of content creators.
Expansion of the Term ‘Media Person’
The draft legislation introduces a more inclusive definition of who qualifies as a ‘media person.’ This expanded scope is designed to reflect the evolving nature of journalism and content creation. Notably, it encompasses freelancers, bloggers, contributors, and digital scribes. To be eligible for protection under this act, these individuals must have published a minimum of three pieces of work in the period ranging from three to six months prior to filing a complaint. The criterion ensures that those seeking protection are actively engaged in the field of media.
Financial Compensation as a Qualifying Factor
In addition to the publication requirement, the draft also considers financial compensation as a factor in determining who can be classified as a media person. Specifically, it includes journalists who have received payment for their work from a media outlet on at least three occasions within the six months preceding a complaint. This financial aspect of the definition serves to further authenticate the professional engagement of the individual with the media sector.
Proposed Penalties for Harassment
To address the issue of harassment faced by media persons, the draft law proposes punitive measures. One of the key features of the legislation is the imposition of a jail term of up to one year for individuals found guilty of harassing journalists. This provision is intended to serve as a deterrent against the mistreatment of media professionals and to establish a legal recourse for those who are subjected to harassment in the course of their duties.
The draft Chhattisgarh Protection of Media Persons Act represents a significant step toward fortifying the rights and safety of journalists. By widening the definition of a media person and setting forth clear penalties for harassment, the proposed law aims to create a more secure environment for the free and fair practice of journalism in Chhattisgarh.