Journalists Allege Harassment in Anna University Sexual Assault FIR Leak Probe

Rajagopal P Swamy 

C hennai–A special investigation team (SIT) probing the leak of the FIR in the Anna University sexual assault case has seized mobile phones from at least four journalists and summoned several others for questioning,sparking outrage and allegations of harassment.

The Chennai Press Club has condemned the action, calling it an infringement on press freedom.

The SIT,formed by the Madras High Court,is investigating both the sexual assault case and the FIR leak,which exposed the victim’s identity and led to victim-blaming.

Journalists were summoned under Sections 179 and 94 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita,ostensibly for their knowledge of facts related to the leak.

They were asked to appear before the SIT head at the Department of Prisons building in Egmore.

According to one journalist,the SIT presented dossiers containing personal details,including marital status and property information,before seizing their mobile phone and other electronic devices.

Journalists were told they could only retrieve their devices after filing a petition in court.

The Chennai Press Club strongly condemned the seizures,stating that they constitute intimidation and an attack on journalistic freedom.

They urged the police to cease the harassment and immediately return the seized devices.A group of journalists also met with Director-General of Police Shankar Jiwal to express their concerns.

Legal experts have questioned the legality of the seizures.Senior lawyer,V. Suresh described the action as an “abuse of process and a violation of the rule of law,” emphasizing the need for proper legal notice and due process.

Senior lawyer and social activist Sudha Ramalingam highlighted the importance of following established procedures for seizing evidence, suggesting that any deviation could render the seizures unlawful.

The Madras High Court,however, has declined to intervene in the matter. A Division Bench of Justices S.M.Subramaniam and M.Jothiraman stated they could not entertain any plea related to the alleged harassment, as the matter has now been taken to the Supreme Court.

The judges advised the aggrieved journalists to approach the apex court for relief.