Post-Article 370, J&K's media grows while PoJK faces press freedom concerns
Srinagar, August 6
The contrast between Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir and the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir has become increasingly visible in the media landscape since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.
While Pakistan continues to face criticism over restrictions on journalists covering developments in PoJK, Jammu & Kashmir has witnessed a steady expansion of its print, broadcast and digital media ecosystem.
The latest concerns emerged after two independent Pakistani journalists, Razi Tahir and Muhammad Saif, reportedly disappeared on August 1 after being taken away by men allegedly dressed in police uniforms from their office in Islamabad.
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), the two journalists had recently reported on the ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir, where internet restrictions and tighter controls on media reporting were imposed during widespread protests.
Their whereabouts remain unknown, prompting CPJ to call for their immediate release and for Pakistani authorities to disclose their location.
The case is part of a broader pattern. Independent journalist Syed Farhad Ali Shah also remains in custody over his reporting on the PoJK protests. International press freedom organisations have expressed concern over the shrinking space for independent journalism in Pakistan, particularly on issues related to Kashmir.
In contrast, Jammu & Kashmir has witnessed significant growth in its media sector after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
According to official records referenced by the Press Council of India, the Union Territory today has 425 government-registered newspapers and publications, including 259 in the Jammu Division and 166 in the Kashmir Division.
Alongside a vibrant print sector, J&K has seen the expansion of local television channels and digital news platforms, reflecting the rapid growth of online journalism.
Improved digital connectivity, expanding internet access and increasing adoption of digital media have enabled wider dissemination of news across the region.
The media is actively reporting on governance, infrastructure, tourism, education, entrepreneurship, sports and cultural developments, while providing local communities with multiple platforms to share their voices.
The contrast highlights two different trajectories. In PoJK, journalists and international media watchdogs continue to raise concerns over disappearances, arrests and restrictions on reporting.
In Jammu & Kashmir, the media landscape has diversified with the growth of newspapers, television and digital platforms, creating a broader information ecosystem and expanding opportunities for news dissemination after the constitutional changes of 2019.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartening to see how J&K's media landscape has flourished since 2019. 425 newspapers and growing digital platforms is a testament to the new era of transparency and openness. Meanwhile, Pakistan's treatment of journalists in PoJK shows their true colors. They talk about human rights but can't even ensure the safety of their own media persons.
While I support the development in J&K, let's be honest - we need to also ensure that local journalists in J&K have complete editorial independence and face no pressure from any quarters. True democracy means press freedom everywhere, not just in comparison to a worse situation. Let's not be complacent. 🤔
The evolution of J&K's media sector post-2019 is remarkable. From more newspapers to digital platforms, the people there are finally getting their voices heard. PoJK residents can only dream of such freedom. Pakistan should learn from India's approach - development and democracy, not suppression and fear.
This is what real progress looks like! 425 registered newspapers, thriving digital media, improved connectivity - all while Pakistan is busy arresting and disappearing journalists who dare to report the truth about PoJK. Our government's initiatives are clearly working. Wishing more peace and prosperity for our J&K brothers and sisters! ✨
As an international observer, this is a classic case of a stark contrast between two opposing philosophies. One side invests in infrastructure, connectivity, and inclusive democracy, allowing the media to flourish. The other side resorts to intimidation, disappearances, and internet shutdowns to silence dissent.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.