– Raheem Khan
Jaipur: The Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) organised a consultation meeting titled “A Consultation with Journalists” at their state office in Adarsh Nagar, Ashok Chowk. Addressing the media, APCR State President Advocate Syed Saadat Ali emphasised the critical role of media in verifying information before reporting, especially in cases involving victims of injustice.
Citing recent incidents in Rajasthan, he noted how conflicts, such as a recent fight between two students in Udaipur, were misrepresented with a communal angle, resulting in arrests and demolition of properties. He mentioned similar situations in Jahazpur, Bhilwara, Shahpura, and Jodhpur, where, according to him, government actions further oppressed victims and media reports contributed to the injustice by not fully investigating.
Ali urged the media to act as the “fourth pillar” of democracy by responsibly raising the voice of the oppressed. He emphasised that APCR stands for justice and support for the innocent, irrespective of religion or caste, and he encouraged journalists to advocate for victims without any form of discrimination.
Muzammil Rizvi, APCR General Secretary, introduced APCR’s ongoing work in providing legal aid, educating citizens on their rights, and supporting victims of injustice. He highlighted that while the Constitution guarantees equitable treatment for all, many government policies and certain laws like TADA, POTA and UAPA disproportionately affect vulnerable groups and are subject to political misuse. He also pointed out the slow and complex judicial process that often deters ordinary citizens from seeking justice.
The media representatives pledged to raise awareness about these issues, promising to support APCR’s mission to bring legal relief to the victims of injustice. Rukhsana Usman, APCR Executive Member, and Rabbe Uma Khan, APCR Assistant Coordinator, were also present at the meeting.
