Munish Sood
Mandi
A shocking incident involving the alleged assault on a differently-abled journalist in Himachal Pradesh has sparked serious concerns over the safety of journalists and the vulnerability of persons with disabilities.
According to reports, Radhakrishna Verma, a local journalist and General Secretary of the Himachal Disabled Welfare Association, was allegedly attacked outside his office near Pandoh on Tuesday morning. Verma, who is physically disabled and a heart patient, was sitting outside his office when the accused, identified as Rajendra Kumar from Haton village, arrived with a group of supporters.
Eyewitnesses stated that the accused and his associates began hurling abuses and issuing threats. The situation escalated when the accused allegedly brandished a sharp iron weapon resembling a sickle and attempted to assault Verma and his son.
The incident triggered panic in the area, drawing a large crowd. Local residents intervened promptly, preventing a potentially serious attack and restraining the accused.
Verma later alleged that he had been under pressure from the accused to publish “favourable and misleading news,” which he had refused. He believes the attack was a consequence of his refusal to compromise journalistic ethics.
During the altercation, Verma’s health reportedly deteriorated due to stress. Given his medical condition and disability, the incident has raised alarm over the lack of protection for vulnerable journalists.
A formal complaint has been lodged at Pandoh Police Station, and an investigation is underway.
Leaders and members of the Himachal Disabled Welfare Association, including Hari Das Prajapati and Ravi Singh Kaushal, have strongly condemned the incident. They have demanded immediate arrest of the accused and adequate security for Verma.
The incident has once again highlighted the dual challenges faced by differently-abled journalists—navigating both physical vulnerability and increasing pressure on independent reporting. Civil society groups are calling for stricter action against those attempting to intimidate journalists, especially those already at risk due to disability.
