Dhanushka Silva
In a groundbreaking revelation, the Sri Lanka Parliament has exposed a decade-long saga of intimidation against journalists, shedding light on the perilous landscape faced by media personnel and media institutions between 2006 and 2015. Through a meticulous Right to Information (RTI) Request, the Speaker’s office has unearthed a disturbing reality, marking the first time in recent history that the names of journalists subjected to intimidation have been presented to Parliament.
The revelations stem from the Parliament Hansard dated November 19, 2016, where discussions delved into the plight of journalists who encountered intimidation from both state and non-state actors during their pursuit of journalism. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the inquiries posed by the author, seeking transparency and accountability regarding the fate of journalists who dared to speak truth to power.
The RTI request sought answers to the following questions;
- Reveal the name list of the journalists murdered during 2006-2015 in Sri Lanka.
- Reveal the names of journalists disappeared during 2006-2015 in Sri Lanka.
- Reveal the names of the journalists who were subjected to physical assault during 2006-2015 in Sri Lanka.
- Reveal the names of journalists arrested by the law enforcement authorities during 2006-2015 in Sri Lanka.
- What media institutions were attacked and what are the legal actions taken against the culprits during 2006-2015 in Sri Lanka?
The findings of the RTI request paint a grim picture, with 13 journalists falling victim to targeted killings during the specified period. Despite legal actions being initiated for all 13 cases, the specter of impunity looms large as perpetrators remain unidentified in three instances, leaving justice elusive for the fallen scribes.
Among the casualties of this era of intimidation is Pradeep Ranjan Bandara, a journalist who mysteriously disappeared on January 24, 2010, leaving behind unanswered questions and unresolved grievances. His disappearance serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in the noble pursuit of truth, where journalists often find themselves navigating treacherous waters, facing threats to their lives and liberties.
Physical assaults emerged as another grim reality faced by journalists, with a staggering 87 individuals enduring various forms of violence during this tumultuous period. These attacks not only inflict bodily harm but also aim to silence dissent and stifle the free flow of information, undermining the very foundations of democracy.
Moreover, the RTI request unearthed the targeting of media institutions, with four prominent entities—Lanka e-News, Sirasa, Daily Mirror, and Siyatha—bearing the brunt of vicious assaults. However, amidst the chaos and carnage, a glimmer of hope emerges as legal actions have been taken against the perpetrators of these attacks, signaling a semblance of accountability in the face of adversity.
The findings of the RTI request underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to safeguard the rights and safety of journalists in Sri Lanka. It is imperative that the government takes proactive measures to address the prevailing culture of impunity and ensure accountability for crimes committed against journalists. Efforts must be intensified to provide adequate protection and support mechanisms for journalists facing threats and harassment in the line of duty.
Furthermore, there is a pressing need to uphold the principles of press freedom and ensure the unhindered operation of media outlets, free from fear of reprisal or censorship. A robust legal framework must be established to safeguard journalists’ rights, with stringent measures in place to prosecute those who seek to undermine the fundamental pillars of democracy through attacks on the press. As we grapple with the revelations brought forth by the RTI request, let us not forget the sacrifices made by journalists in the pursuit of truth. Their unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of democracy serves as a beacon of hope in times of darkness, inspiring us all to defend the sanctity of press freedom and the right to information.
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