Journalist orgs express shock, outrage at murder of Shujaat Bukhari

The Indian Women's Press Corps, Press Association and Federation of Press Clubs of India express their deep shock and outrage at the brazen murder of senior journalist and editor of Rising Kashmir, Shujaat Bukhari.

As per reports Mr Bukhari was shot at by unidentified gunmen in Srinagar's Press Enclave area on the evening of June 14. He had been given security cover in 2000 after repeated assassination attempts. The two security guards accompanying him are also said to be critical.

Mr Bukhari was a respected journalist known for his wide range of analytical writings on Kashmir. He used to contribute to many journals and magazines. He was the Bureau Chief of the Hindu.

It may be recalled Mr Bukhari continued to write actively despite the death threats issued to him. His murder can only be viewed as yet another attempt to muzzle the media and the freedom of the press in the valley.

We demand that the dastardly forces responsible for his killing should be brought to book by the Jammu and Kashmir government at the earliest. We also express our deep condolences to the family members and friends of Mr Bukhari.

Indian Women's Press Corps, Press Association, Federation of Press Clubs of India