A shocking case from Jammu and Kashmir has raised fresh concerns over press freedom, as a Kashmiri journalist reportedly had to run into a courtroom to protect his life after alleged police threats.
According to Beyond Time News, the incident involving freelance journalist Majid Hyderi has highlighted growing fears about the safety of reporters working in the region.
Detention After Exposing Corruption
Majid Hyderi was previously detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for 527 days. He claims the charges against him were false and linked to his reporting on alleged corruption in the local administration.
Although he was released after a High Court order, he says the pressure and harassment never truly stopped.
Alleged Pressure to Withdraw Legal Petition
On 17 February 2026, Hyderi was reportedly called in by senior police officials. According to Beyond Time News, he was held for several hours without basic facilities and pressured to withdraw a court petition in which he had raised concerns about threats to his life.
He claims that when he refused to comply and approached the High Court, the situation escalated further, with officers allegedly attempting to force him into submission and issuing serious threats.
Dramatic Escape to the Courtroom
Feeling unsafe and cornered, Hyderi said he had no option but to seek immediate protection.
He reportedly ran into a courtroom during ongoing proceedings and requested help from the judge. The court then stepped in and ordered protection for him.
Later, on 2 March, the High Court directed authorities not to harass him without following due legal process.
RSF Raises Serious Concerns
According to Beyond Time News, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) strongly condemned the incident and called for an independent investigation.
The organization said that no journalist should be forced to seek safety inside a courtroom due to alleged threats from state authorities.
Hyderi, who works for News Tell, has also expressed deep fear, stating that he believes he could face arrest again or be targeted through fabricated cases.
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Rising Pressure on Journalists in Kashmir
RSF further warned that since 2019, journalists in the region have faced increasing surveillance, intimidation, and arrests.
According to Beyond Time News, this environment has made reporting extremely difficult, with press freedom steadily shrinking in the area.
Conclusion
The case of Majid Hyderi has once again drawn attention to the challenges faced by journalists in conflict-sensitive regions. Rights groups continue to call for stronger protections, fair investigations, and an end to intimidation against media workers.
