Una: The recent filing of an FIR against journalist Avinash Vidrohi in Una district has reignited a national debate over the health of India’s democratic institutions and the growing pressure on independent journalism.
Vidrohi, known for his investigative reporting on governance and public accountability, faces charges of defamation and spreading misinformation under sections of the Indian Penal Code. The complaint, reportedly filed by a local official, accuses the journalist of publishing misleading content that allegedly damaged the reputation of government personnel.
While local authorities have defended the FIR as a legal response to what they claim is irresponsible journalism, press freedom advocates view it differently.
“This is not just about one journalist,” said a representative of the Himachal Pradesh Journalists’ Association. “This is about the growing trend of using legal instruments like FIRs to silence voices that question authority. It tilts the balance of power away from transparency and toward intimidation.”
Legal experts and free speech activists warn that such actions can set a dangerous precedent. “Filing criminal cases against journalists—especially under broad or ambiguous legal provisions—creates a chilling effect,” said Supreme Court advocate Anjali Mehra. “It discourages critical reporting and shifts the media’s role from a watchdog to a target.”
Across India, journalists are increasingly reporting harassment, surveillance, or legal action for coverage that highlights systemic issues or exposes those in power. In Vidrohi’s case, the FIR comes shortly after his reports on alleged irregularities in local administration gained traction on social media and digital platforms.
“Democracy depends on a free press to inform citizens and question governance,” said Professor Raghav Verma, a political scientist at Panjab University. “When journalists are targeted for doing their job, it erodes public trust and creates an imbalance in how power is checked and held accountable.”
Meanwhile, national and regional media bodies have condemned the FIR, calling it an attempt to muzzle dissent and demanding that charges be dropped. The Editors Guild of India has urged the Himachal Pradesh government to intervene and ensure that press freedoms are protected.
S Gopal Puri
