The Shocking Confrontation in Dehradun
In a democracy, the press is often called the fourth estate, a watchdog meant to hold power accountable. But what happens when the very people meant to serve the public turn on that watchdog? A shocking video emerging from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has sent ripples of outrage across the nation, capturing a moment that lays bare the friction between authority and accountability.
The viral clip shows a tense confrontation inside the office of Ramakrishna Uniyal, the Director of Primary Education for Uttarakhand. A female journalist is seen questioning Uniyal, reportedly about alleged irregularities in teacher transfers—a perennially sensitive issue in the state. What starts as a verbal exchange quickly spirals into a physical altercation that is both alarming and deeply disturbing.
‘Hum Press Se Hai!’: A Cry for Press Freedom
As the journalist persists with her questions, Uniyal, a senior IAS officer, is seen losing his composure. He lunges towards her, forcibly snatches her mobile phone—the device recording the encounter—and appears to push her. Throughout the chaotic scuffle, the woman’s voice is heard, clear and defiant, shouting, “Hum press se hai! Hum press se hai!” (I am from the press!).
Her cry is not just a statement of her profession; it’s a plea for civility and a declaration of her right to question a public official. It’s a reminder that she is a representative of the public’s right to know. Yet, in the video, this declaration is met with continued aggression as the official allegedly manhandles her while trying to delete the recording—a blatant attempt to erase evidence of his own misconduct.
Outrage Erupts, FIR Filed Against Director
The incident strikes at the heart of press freedom and the safety of journalists, particularly women, in the line of duty. For a high-ranking bureaucrat to resort to physical force against a journalist is an appalling abuse of power that sends a chilling message to anyone who dares to ask uncomfortable questions.
Following the video’s explosion on social media, the outrage was swift and widespread. Journalist bodies have condemned the attack, and citizens have voiced their disgust. The Dehradun police have since taken action, confirming that an FIR has been registered against Director Ramakrishna Uniyal under IPC sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 504 (intentional insult to provoke breach of the peace), and 506 (criminal intimidation) at the Nehru Colony police station.
A Test for Accountability
This incident raises fundamental questions. If this is the treatment meted out to a journalist with a camera, how are ordinary citizens with grievances treated in these offices? The mobile phone camera has become a great equaliser, capturing truths that would otherwise be denied. In this case, it captured a moment of inexcusable behaviour from a senior official.
The investigation is now underway, and the law will take its course. However, the court of public opinion has delivered a resounding verdict. The people of Uttarakhand, and indeed the country, are watching to see if there will be true accountability for this shocking assault on the press.
