Journalists attacked at Jantar Mantar, TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee defends the crowd who called them ‘Godi media’; Priyanka Gandhi and Priyanka Chaturvedi expressed their displeasure

Strong demonstration of students and protesters continues under the leadership of Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) regarding the NEET exam leak issue at the historic Jantar Mantar of the capital Delhi. The protesters remain adamant on demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and comprehensive reforms in the education system. In the last two days, incidents of indecency, pushing and assault have come to light with many TV and digital media journalists who came to do ground reporting of this huge demonstration. In the video viral on social media, reporters can be seen being surrounded and targeted while raising slogans of ‘Godi Media’.

TMC MP Kalyan Banerjee’s statement created uproar

When journalists asked senior All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee a question about the assault and targeting of media persons at Jantar Mantar in the Parliament House complex, his answer was very shocking. Kalyan Banerjee openly defended the protesters and said, “They know that you people are Godi media people. Whatever they are doing, they are doing absolutely right.” Along with this he said that if the reporter asks questions in a biased manner then he will not answer. However, he also added that the government should listen seriously to the problems of the students.

Voices divided in opposition: Priyanka Gandhi and Priyanka Chaturvedi condemned

The voices of the opposition leaders are not matching with each other regarding this attack on journalists. Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, reacting to the incident, said, “We are strictly against any kind of violence. If violence is happening to journalists while reporting, it is extremely unfortunate.” However, along with this he also appealed to the media to speak the truth. On the other hand, former Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi strongly condemned the attack on media persons. Referring to journalists working on the ground (like Times Now’s Dev Kotak and Shefali), he said that it is extremely shameful to harass or beat someone just because they have a mike in their hand. He advised the protesters to understand their responsibilities and focus only on their issue.