Menu
search

Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan issues ‘warning’ to media, journalists slam ’intimidation’

Governor’s Advisor Thirugnana Sambadam warned media heads and correspondents to rely only on official Raj Bhavan communications, stressing that unauthorized attributions would be taken seriously and could invite appropriate action

k. Nitika Shivani

Published Apr 27, 2025 | 12:35 AM ⚊ Updated Apr 27, 2025 | 1:39 PM

Journalists slam Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan’s advisory to media

Journalists slam Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan’s advisory to media

Synopsis: On Day 2 of the Vice-Chancellors’ Conference at Raj Bhavan, Ooty, Tamil Nadu Governor’s Advisor Thirugnana Sambadam cautioned journalists against quoting Raj Bhavan sources without official verification. In a notice, media outlets were urged to rely only on official communications, warning that unauthorised attributions could invite serious action. Sambadam sought the media’s cooperation in ensuring accurate reporting
On Day 2 of the Vice-Chancellors’ Conference held at Raj Bhavan, Ooty, Tamil Nadu Governor’s Advisor Thirugnana Sambadam issued an statement cautioning journalists about quoting Raj Bhavan sources without official verification. “I request the cooperation of the media fraternity in this regard,” he said.

In the notice issued by Thirugnana Sambadam, Advisor to the Governor, media heads, editors, and Raj Bhavan beat correspondents were told that “information related to Raj Bhavan may be heeded only if shared through official channel and competent authority.” It further stated that “any attributions quoting Raj Bhavan sources directly or indirectly without checking the veracity or authenticity from competent authority shall be avoided and would be viewed seriously and taken into account for appropriate action.”

However, the advisory triggered immediate backlash from across the journalist community, with many terming it an attempt to intimidate the press.

Also Read: Raj Bhavan dismisses reports of power struggle

Journalists express their concerns

Senior journalists echoed concerns, describing the advisory as an overreach that could restrict independent journalism. Journalist unions too opposed the tone and intent of the Raj Bhavan’s statement.
“Chennai Union of journalists strongly condemns Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan’s Advisor for threatening and intimidating the media,” the union said, warning that such language sets a dangerous precedent against free reporting.

“This is a complete and blatant abuse of power,” said SP Lakshmanan, President of the Chennai Union of Journalists. “A Governor who already faces serious criticism should be the last person to undermine press freedom. Journalists have the absolute right to report the news as it is — without interference or intimidation. For an advisor to withhold factual news is bad news, and attempting to silence the press is both unlawful and unacceptable. Neither the Governor nor his advisors have any authority to pull such stunts. In the history of Indian politics, no governor has caused as much disruption as he has. Even after all that has come to light, to continue making such statements is outrageous, disgraceful, and unbecoming of the constitutional office he holds.”

(Edited by Ananya Rao)

journalist-ad