Police Promise Strong Action Against Online Abuse of Women Journalists
The Hyderabad City Police Commissioner, V.C. Sajjanar, has promised strict action against people responsible for issuing online threats and abusive messages towards women journalists. His statement came after a group of women journalists formally complained about the increasing online harassment they are facing.
On Tuesday, a delegation of women journalists, including independent journalist Thulasi Chandu, met Commissioner Sajjanar. They explained how they have been continuously targeted with hateful comments, vulgar posts, and threatening messages on social media. They said that certain social media handles have been spreading coordinated hate campaigns aimed at insulting, scaring, and silencing women journalists.
During the meeting, the journalists presented videos, screenshots, and web links as evidence. They also told the Commissioner that, in some cases, personal details such as their home addresses were shared online, putting their safety and privacy at risk. They described this as part of an organised effort to spread fear and stop them from doing their professional work.
The Commissioner directed them to share all the available material related to their complaints and assured them that swift action would be taken. “We will take action at the earliest,” he said. He also confirmed that the evidence given by the journalists would be carefully examined, and further steps would be taken as per the law.
In their written complaint, the journalists asked for a thorough investigation under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology (IT) Act. They also requested action against the accounts responsible for the abuse and called for protective measures for women journalists facing such threats.
Appeal to Women’s Commission
Meanwhile, the delegation also met Nerella Sharada, the Chairperson of the Telangana State Commission for Women (SCW). They asked the Commission to step in and address the issue of online harassment. They requested the creation of a special cell to monitor digital abuse, the strict enforcement of cyber laws, and awareness campaigns to educate the public about the seriousness of online harassment.
Sharada responded positively and assured them that the issue would be taken up with Telangana DGP B. Shivadhar Reddy, Police Commissioner Sajjanar, Cyber Security Bureau Director Shikha Goel, and the Chief Minister’s Office. She further added that the Commission is preparing a detailed action plan to tackle online abuse and ensure better safety and support for women.
The journalists hope that these steps will lead to stronger protection and a safer online environment for women in the media.
