AIP Wire Report, New York
A new report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), published April 15, 2026, warns of rising violence and intimidation against journalists in India’s West Bengal state ahead of upcoming elections.
The CPJ investigation documents multiple attacks on reporters covering political unrest and protests. In one incident in Murshidabad district, journalists Soma Maity and Ranjit Mahato were assaulted by a mob, with Mahato hospitalized after suffering head injuries. CPJ says at least four journalists were attacked within a 48-hour period during related clashes.
The report describes a broader pattern of hostility toward the press in the politically polarized region, where journalists face mob violence, harassment, and damage to equipment, often with limited police protection or follow-up investigations.
As quoted by CPJ, journalist Palash Singh said: “Something may begin as a simple protest but will soon be taken over by mob — journalists then become immediate targets.”
CPJ concludes that the pre-election climate has intensified risks for media workers and calls for stronger protections, faster legal action, and greater accountability for attacks on journalists.
