Bilal Bhat
Srinagar, July 27: In a decisive step toward defending media rights in Kashmir, President of the Press Club of Kashmir, Mohammad Saleem Pandit, today held a crucial meeting with Principal of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, following the recent assault on journalists by protesting doctors.
The meeting was convened after a press conference held earlier this week at the Press Club, where Pandit and senior journalists condemned the manhandling of at least three media persons during the PG doctors’ strike at SMHS Hospital.
During today’s meeting, which took place at the request of GMC administration, Dr. Iffat assured Pandit and the accompanying journalists that strict action will be taken against the involved PG students after the completion of a formal inquiry initiated by the government.
> “We will ensure those involved in misconduct are held accountable. Journalists are the backbone of public communication, and their safety is our responsibility,” said Dr. Iffat Shah, adding that the terms of reference of the inquiry will now include treatment of journalists.
Pandit firmly conveyed the media fraternity’s deep anguish over the incident, stating:
> “We are here to report, not to be assaulted. This is about the safety and dignity of every journalist working in Kashmir. We expect swift and just action.”
A Deputy Superintendent of Police from Shaheed Gunj police station, who was also present, confirmed that initial investigation has begun and an FIR will be registered against those found guilty.
Journalists also raised concerns about certain Medical Representatives supporting the protest, calling it a dangerous mix of vested interests with professional responsibility.
The meeting concluded on a reconciliatory note, with Pandit reiterating the media’s support for the healthcare system, while demanding zero tolerance for violence against the press.
> “Today was about accountability. The media is watching, and we will continue to stand united,” Pandit added.
As the inquiry unfolds, Saleem Pandit’s proactive leadership is being widely lauded for turning outrage into institutional response — marking a vital stand for press freedom and safety in Kashmir.
“When journalists were beaten, Kashmir’s ruling elite stayed silent. Neither the ruling party nor the so-called opposition had the spine to stand for the very voices that amplify the truth. Their silence wasn’t neutrality — it was cowardice wrapped in political convenience.”
Despite silence looming over the assault on Kashmir’s journalists, it was Mohammad Saleem Pandith, President of the Press Club of Kashmir, who stood tall, fearless, and unshaken.
Amid growing attacks on the freedom of the press, Pandith became the voice of resistance — confronting the medical fraternity’s silence and the administration’s inaction. From calling an urgent press conference to walking into the chambers of GMC’s highest authority, he demanded justice, not apologies.
His firm stance not only brought media dignity back into focus but also forced the administration to initiate an inquiry and guarantee action against the culprits. Saleem Pandith’s courage, diplomacy, and unbending resolve remind Kashmir — the pen still holds power.
