News Broadcasters Association condemns victimization of journalists, unethical reporting by Republic TV

The News Broadcasters Association (NBA) in a press release today expressed its displeasure over the clashes between the media and the Mumbai police in the TRP scam issue. 

"NBA is very disturbed at the turn of events in Mumbai as the clash between Republic TV and Mumbai police is posing a threat to the credibility and respect of two great institutions, the media and the police," read the press release.

The NBA further said, "We are deeply concerned that journalists working in the newsroom have become victims of this unfortunate conflict". 

The NBA said that the freedom of speech and expression is of paramount to the media and despite the Republic TV not being a part of the NBA any case filed against the staff of the channel will be taken lightly. 

"We do not approve of the kind of journalism that is being practised by Republic TV. And even though Republic TV is not a member of the NBA and does not subscribe to our Code, we still take strong exception to cases filed against its editorial staff. We stand for the freedom of speech and expression of the media as enshrined in the Constitution of India. At the same time, we endorse the practice of ethics in journalism and put fair and balanced reporting at the core of what we report upon".

News Broadcasters Association also requested the Mumbai police to ensure no one was made a victim in the TRP scam tug of war.

"We appeal to the Mumbai police to ensure that no journalists are made victims of this crossfire. We also appeal to journalists working with Republic TV not to cross the Lakshman Rekha as clearly observed by the Bombay High Court".