Step into the thought-provoking gallery, “Shackled Voices,” which exposes the distressing reality of press freedom in Indian-administered Kashmir. Witness the crackdown on media and the alarming arrests of journalists, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the region. Discover the stories of Asif Sultan, Fahad Shah, Sajad Gul, and Irfan Mehraj, four journalists arbitrarily detained under controversial laws. The exhibition sheds light on the deteriorating press freedom since August 5, 2019, as well as the climate of fear and self-censorship plaguing Kashmiri journalists. Experience the striking visuals capturing the region’s struggle for a free press, amidst India’s attempts to silence reporting on the ground.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemns the crackdown on media and arrests of journalists in Indian-administered Kashmir. The CPJ calls for an end to the brutal crackdown and the immediate release of the detained Kashmiri journalists: Asif Sultan, Fahad Shah, Sajad Gul, and Irfan Mehraj. These journalists have been targeted under anti-terror laws and face charges related to their reporting and association with human rights organizations.Press freedom in Kashmir continues to be under attack. Since August 5, 2019, when Kashmir lost its limited autonomy, press freedom has worsened. The Indian government has introduced laws and policies aimed at undermining the rights of Kashmiri residents and stifling journalism. Journalists operate in an environment of fear, with raids on their homes, summonses by the police, and self-censorship becoming prevalent.International media watchdog organizations like Reporters Without Borders and the CPJ have criticized India’s press freedom record. India’s ranking in the World Press Freedom Index is at an all-time low, reflecting the deteriorating situation. The CPJ releases a statement calling for action and highlights the need for India to address the ongoing suppression of the press in Kashmir.Amidst the crackdown on press freedom, New Delhi hosts a Group of 20 (G20) tourism meeting in Srinagar, Kashmir. The meeting aims to promote global tourism and attract foreign delegates. Security arrangements are heightened, and visible signs of security deployments have been removed to project a sense of normalcy. Locals are barred from certain areas, and schools are closed temporarily.Mehbooba Mufti, the region’s last elected chief minister, criticizes the G20 meeting, likening Kashmir to Guantanamo Bay. China boycotts the meeting due to its ongoing border dispute with India, and Pakistan criticizes the meeting being held in the disputed territory. Reports indicate that Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt also stay away from the event, further impacting the perception of normalcy.The Indian government hosts the G20 meeting in Kashmir, attempting to project a sense of normalcy. However, the absence of China diminishes this impression. The Indian government’s efforts to showcase a cheerful and scenic Kashmir, such as painting military bunkers blue and improving roads, contrast with the reality of restricted press freedom and limited mobility for journalists.Geeta Sesu, co-founder of the Free Speech Collective, raises concerns about the condition of press freedom in Kashmir and questions whether G20 delegates will be allowed to engage with the true picture. Journalists remain imprisoned, and others face severe restrictions on their mobility and access. The contrasting narratives between the official presentation and the ground reality raise doubts about the transparency of the event.
