A Controversial Ban on Press Freedom
A major controversy erupted in the Odisha Assembly on Wednesday as journalists covering legislative proceedings staged a protest against a sudden ban on mobile phones inside the press gallery. The move, which restricts reporters from carrying essential communication devices, has sparked strong opposition from the media fraternity, who argue that it curtails press freedom and transparency.
Journalists Boycott Proceedings, Stage Protest
In response to the ban, journalists boycotted the Assembly proceedings and staged a sit-in near the Mahatma Gandhi statue on the Assembly premises. They were reportedly handed envelopes at the entrance and asked to deposit their mobile phones before entering the press gallery. This decision, they argued, severely impacts their ability to provide real-time reporting.
“This ban restricts press freedom, a cornerstone of democracy. Carrying out our work without a mobile phone is not possible. We urge the government to reconsider its decision and permit mobile phone usage inside the press gallery,” said one of the protesting journalists.
The Reason Behind the Ban
The restriction comes a day after the Odisha Assembly witnessed chaotic scenes, with a scuffle breaking out between ruling and opposition members. Several videos of the incident, recorded on mobile phones, went viral on social media, raising questions about transparency and accountability. The protesting journalists believe the ban is an attempt to suppress media coverage and prevent the public from knowing what happens inside the House.
BJD MLA Arun Sahoo, in support of the journalists, criticized the decision, stating, “The government should clarify what it wants to hide. Journalists have the right to report news without any restrictions.”
Are There Similar Bans in Other States?
Odisha is not the first state to impose restrictions on mobile phone usage inside legislative houses. In 2021, Uttar Pradesh banned mobile phones inside the Vidhan Sabha to prevent disruptions and leaks of internal discussions. Similarly, states like Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu have also imposed restrictions on the use of mobile phones in their assemblies, citing security and decorum concerns.
A Battle for Transparency
The Odisha government’s decision to ban mobile phones in the press gallery has led to strong resistance from journalists, who view it as an infringement on press freedom. While similar restrictions exist in other states, the timing of this ban—following a controversial incident in the Assembly—raises suspicions. Whether the government will reconsider its stance remains to be seen, but the incident has reignited the debate over transparency and freedom of the press in legislative proceedings.
(With inputs from agencies)
