New Guidelines for Journalists: Ensuring Safety and Impartiality During Protests

The Press Council of India has introduced new guidelines aimed at ensuring the safety and impartiality of journalists during protests. These directives emphasize the importance of maintaining objectivity, visibly displaying press credentials, and adhering to police instructions. Following recent incidents where journalists were detained while covering protests, the council's guidelines also stress the need for responsible reporting and coordination with law enforcement. Journalists are advised to carry emergency kits and remain vigilant about crowd dynamics. The guidelines aim to foster a safer environment for reporters while enhancing the quality of coverage during demonstrations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 15, 2026, 20:17 IST

New Directives from the Press Council of India

New Delhi: The Press Council of India (PCI) has issued new guidelines for journalists covering protests and demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of objectivity and neutrality in their reporting. Journalists are required to visibly display their press identification cards and adhere to lawful directives from law enforcement.

During a meeting held on October 14, the council established these guidelines, which advise reporters against participating in protests, taking sides, or inciting confrontations. They are encouraged to maintain a safe distance from any clashes and remain vigilant about potential dangers.

These guidelines were introduced following the detention of several journalists who were covering recent protests in the national capital against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Press organizations have condemned the actions of the police, claiming that reporters were detained even while displaying their press credentials, and some had their phones and reporting tools confiscated.

The council stated, "Given the current situation and the necessity for orderly and effective coverage of protests and demonstrations," it has implemented these guidelines to enhance the safety of journalists, promote responsible reporting, and improve coordination with law enforcement.

According to the new directives, journalists should carry identification issued by their media organizations or PIB/DIP accreditation, ensuring it is clearly visible during demonstrations.

The guidelines advise journalists to remain respectful, follow police orders, avoid disputes in tense situations, and assert their press status calmly when required.

Additionally, the council encourages journalists to be aware of changes in crowd dynamics and to identify escape routes beforehand.

It also suggests that reporters carry emergency kits containing first-aid supplies, water, snacks, flashlights, protective goggles, headgear, and body armor based on the assessed risks.

Media organizations are urged to maintain consistent communication with reporters on assignment and appoint personnel to monitor their locations and respond to emergencies.

For planned protests, news organizations should collaborate with designated police officers or press liaison personnel to establish communication protocols and identify media staging areas.

Regarding reporting standards, the council has urged journalists to verify information through multiple sources, scrutinize claims from both protesters and government officials equally, and exercise caution when identifying minors, injured individuals, and vulnerable groups.