New Delhi [India]: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognisance of media reports detailing the brutal assault of TV journalist Bijay Pradhan, who was attacked while reporting on alleged corruption at a construction site in Kulthipali village, Balangir district, Odisha, on May 25.
According to media sources, Pradhan was ambushed by a group of men while filming at the site, following complaints by locals regarding irregularities in the construction project. The attackers reportedly tied his hands and legs, paraded him through the village, and bound him to a pole before subjecting him to a violent beating.
In a video widely circulated on social media, Pradhan is seen being kicked, dragged, and assaulted over the course of two hours. He suffered serious injuries, including a ruptured eardrum, and is currently undergoing treatment at Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital.
The NHRC, acknowledging the gravity of the incident, stated that if the allegations are substantiated, they represent a gross violation of human rights, especially the freedom of the press. The Commission has issued a notice to the Director General of Police, Odisha, demanding a detailed report within two weeks.
Further reports reveal that the assailants forcibly seized Pradhan’s mobile phone, microphone, and camera, effectively erasing footage linked to the corruption allegations. He was also threatened against publishing or reporting the details of the incident or exposing the construction scam.
“This is not just an attack on an individual, but a brazen attempt to silence journalism and intimidate truth-seekers,” said a senior media advocate in Odisha.
The Indian Journalists Union (IJU) and several press freedom organisations have condemned the assault, urging the Odisha government to ensure accountability and protect media workers in vulnerable zones.
This incident has once again raised concerns about the increasing risks faced by journalists in rural and semi-urban areas, particularly those reporting on local-level corruption and administrative failures.
NHRC’s Directive:
- Recipient: DGP, Odisha
- Response Time: Two weeks
- Focus: Action taken, status of investigation, protection measures for the journalist