Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has indicated that his government may work towards reopening the Kashmir Press Club (KPC) in Srinagar, which was shut down three years ago under the Lieutenant Governor’s administration.
Speaking during his budget speech in the J&K Assembly on Friday, Abdullah emphasized the importance of a free and independent press in a democracy.
“We are committed to strengthening press infrastructure, ensuring greater access to information, and safeguarding journalists’ rights. Steps will be taken to revive and support the Press Club in both Jammu and Srinagar, providing journalists with a dedicated space for professional collaboration and public discourse,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concerns over press freedom in the region. National Conference legislator Bashir Ahmad Veeri recently raised the issue of journalists allegedly being detained for reporting on the felling of chinar trees in Anantnag. He urged the Speaker to intervene and ensure journalists are protected from harassment.
Srinagar has been without a press club since January 2022, when the J&K administration suspended the registration of the KPC just as it was preparing for elections. The club had around 300 registered journalists. Official records indicate that the re-registration of the KPC was put on hold due to pending verification of its managing body members by security agencies.
