Independent journalism in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and India is facing unprecedented state repression under Narendra Modi’s government.

Journalists and media outlets are increasingly being targeted through harassment, intimidation, and coercion, as the ruling BJP continues its efforts to align the press with its Hindutva agenda.

The Modi regime’s systematic dismantling of press freedom has created a hostile environment for journalists across India and IIOJK. Those who expose government failures or criticize BJP policies often face relentless abuse by Hindutva forces on social media and are subjected to threats and harassment.

Since August 5, 2019 the crackdown on Kashmiri journalists has reached alarming levels.

Press freedom in India has steadily declined under Modi, as reflected in global rankings such as the Press Freedom Index, which shows a significant drop in India’s standing.

Meanwhile, In Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Indian troops in their fresh act of state terrorism have martyred two Kashmiri youth in Poonch district.  

 According to Kashmir Media Service, the troops martyred the youth during a cordon and search operation in the Khari Karmara area of the district.