Punjab High Court Slams State's High-Handedness Against Journalist, Seeks Explanation
The Punjab & Haryana High Court has sought a response from the Punjab Government on the allegations of highhandedness and abuse of power against a journalist who was arrested for publishing news against a real estate owner.
Real EstateJournalistHighhandednessFreedom Of PressGovernment LandReal EstateJul 01, 2024
However, Senior Advocate R.S. Bains, appearing for Taggar, argued that his client is a journalist who published a news item highlighting the wrongful means adopted by N.K. Sharma Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. and Savitri Green-2 Projects, which are being brought up by a politician-cum-renowned builder in District Mohali, usurping government land. The real owners of the said land registered an FIR against N.K. Sharma, who along with his family members, is also stated to have constituted a fake trust in the name and style of Darbari Lal Foundation International Education Society, whereby encroachment has been made upon 5 bighas and 18 biswas of land, which otherwise vests in the Government.
The senior advocate contended that Taggar was used as an arm-twisting mode to curb the voice of people through media at the hands of influential complainant. Considering the submissions, Justice Sandeep Moudgil granted interim bail to the journalist, stating that the petitioner is behind bars and facing incarceration for one month and 23 days merely for publishing a news item against the complainant and its enterprises, further infringing his right to life and liberty in a socialistic welfare state.
The matter is listed for July 29, for further consideration. The High Court's move is seen as a significant step towards upholding the freedom of press and ensuring that journalists are not harassed or intimidated for performing their duty.
Information The Punjab & Haryana High Court is a high court located in Chandigarh, India. It has jurisdiction over the states of Punjab and Haryana.
The Punjab Government is the governing authority of the state of Punjab, India. It is responsible for the administration and governance of the state.
Keywords real estate, journalist, Punjab & Haryana High Court, highhandedness, colourable exercise of power, freedom of press, extortion, government land, fake trust, encroachment,
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the journalist arrested on charges of extortion?
Rajinder Singh Taggar
What is the name of the real estate owner who filed the complaint?
N.K. Sharma
What is the name of the online news channel operated by Taggar?
Punjab Dastavez
What is the name of the trust constituted by N.K. Sharma?
Darbari Lal Foundation International Education Society
When is the next hearing of the case scheduled?
July 29
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