SRINAGAR, May 22:
Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday raised serious concerns over the continued suspension of government advertisements to newspapers in Jammu and Kashmir, warning that the move has thrown print journalism in the Valley into deep crisis.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Mehbooba wrote, “Suspension of government advertisements vital for both small and leading publications has thrown print journalism into complete disarray across the Valley. It’s only further deepened the crisis in the local media ecosystem, depriving hundreds of families who rely on it for their livelihood.”
She urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take immediate cognizance of the issue and initiate corrective measures. “Request @CM_JnK to take cognisance of this issue,” she added.
In addition to concerns voiced by established media outlets, owners of fresh newspapers—who have been independently running their publications for the past 8 to 9 years—have also appealed to the government for urgent intervention. These independent publishers, many of whom operate without any formal support, have been waiting for over eight years for empanelment by the Directorate of Information.
Despite fulfilling their journalistic duties under challenging circumstances, these publications remain excluded from government advertisement benefits and formal recognition, thereby facing severe operational hardships.
“We urge the government to expedite the long-pending empanelment process for fresh newspapers,” said a group of publishers and editors. “Recognition of our work and inclusion in official media policy would go a long way in encouraging grassroots journalism and upholding the spirit of democracy.”
Local media bodies have echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the restoration of government support is not merely a financial necessity but a crucial step toward sustaining independent, free, and fair journalism in Jammu and Kashmir.
