Agartala Press Club Expresses Concern Over Alleged Misuse of Journalist Identity, Calls for Protection of Professional Integrity

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, November 13, 2026

The growing misuse of journalist identity in Tripura, particularly amid the rapid expansion of social media platforms, has emerged as a serious concern among senior journalists and editors, who believe that the credibility and professional dignity of genuine journalism are increasingly under threat.

According to several senior journalists and editors, an alarming trend has developed in the state where individuals allegedly engage in activities under the identity of journalists without following basic professional ethics, accountability or established journalistic practices. The absence of an effective mechanism to distinguish genuine journalists from individuals misusing the profession has reportedly created an atmosphere of confusion and growing distrust.

The Agartala Press Club has recently received several complaints alleging that certain individuals and groups have been exploiting the identity of journalists to collect information, attend official programmes, cover press conferences and, in some instances, allegedly exert pressure on individuals and institutions for personal benefits. There are also allegations that some people have attempted to use their association with journalism to obtain undue advantages.

Senior members of the journalistic fraternity have expressed particular concern over the alleged emergence of unofficial media groups maintained by certain political leaders and ministers for publicity and image-building purposes. According to these allegations, selected individuals identifying themselves as journalists are reportedly given preferential access to such groups, while established and experienced journalists are sometimes overlooked when invitations are issued for important press conferences and official interactions.

More seriously, some senior journalists have alleged that a section of so-called journalist leaders attempt to defend or publicly project individuals accused of misusing the journalist identity whenever controversies arise. Such practices, is further weakening professional accountability and undermine the credibility of recognised media organisations.

Another allegation that has generated discussion within journalistic circles concerns the reported distribution of Puja bonuses by a few ministers to selected individuals identifying themselves as journalists. Although these allegations require independent verification, senior journalists believe that any financial or personal favour extended to media representatives in exchange for favourable publicity would raise serious questions about journalistic independence and ethical standards.

There are also concerns that certain emerging political leaders have developed close relationships with individuals accused of operating under questionable media identities, allegedly because such individuals can be used to circulate favourable narratives or target political opponents through social media and other communication platforms.

Consequently, a disturbing situation is reportedly developing in which genuine senior journalists and established media organisations are not always given appropriate recognition or access to official events, while individuals with questionable professional credentials of the digital and social medias content creators allegedly receive invitations and privileged access.

The rapid growth of digital platforms has undoubtedly expanded opportunities for independent journalism and public communication. However, experienced journalists argue that the absence of professional accountability and the misuse of press car and press identity cannot be justified in the name of digital freedom.

The Agartala Press Club has reportedly expressed strong displeasure over such developments and indicated that complaints concerning the misuse of journalist identity should be taken seriously. The Club's position, as reflected in its recent communication, underscores the need to protect the dignity of the profession and prevent individuals from exploiting the journalist identity for personal or financial benefits.

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