Censorship – News Media/Documentaries

The Kerala government has initiated moves to curb the media by ordering an investigation into reports it perceives as damaging to its image. It is learned that this action against media freedom follows the direct intervention of the Chief Minister.

The probe targets newspaper articles, including those published in Malayala Manorama in April, on the Agriculture Department’s handling of the World Bank-funded Kera project. The stated aim is to trace the source of the reports.

B Ashok, Principal Secretary in the Agriculture Department, has been appointed as the investigation officer with powers to summon documents, collect statements from officials or private individuals, and seek explanations from journalists and media houses. He can also record statements and document any actions taken. The inquiry must be completed and a report submitted within a month.

The government has alleged that journalists obtained information through “illegitimate means”.