SHILLONG : The Meghalaya Electronic Media Association (MEMA) has condemned the attack on a freelance journalist Biplab Dey from Garo Hills, who was allegedly assaulted by timber smugglers in Athiabari, West Khasi Hills District at about 10:30 pm on Tuesday night.
In a press statement, president of MEMA, Kyrmenlang Uriah said that Dey was assaulted by timber smugglers when he went to take photo and video evidence of an illegal transportation of timber from Garo hills region to Assam.
The assailants allegedly belonged to a group that was controlling the illegal business.
According to information received by MEMA, the mobile phone and camera of the journalist were snatched by the smugglers to destroy evidence.
MEMA termed the act as an attack on the fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression of the media/press that play a crucial role in enabling citizens to know what is happening around, to keep the public informed and to expose the misdeeds of the mighty & powerful.
MEMA had urged the State Police to take action urgently against the group which has been identified as member of the All Rabha Students Union in order that the media/press are able to perform their duties without fear.
Meanwhile,the Shillong Press Club strongly condemned the dastardly attack on Dey urgeed police to immediately arrest the criminals and deal with them as per law.
SPC also wished Dey a speedy recovery and asserted that journalists would never be cowed down by such acts of cowardice.
