New Delhi: The Indian Journalists Union (IJU) strongly condemns the horrific murder of web journalist Naresh Kumar, who was brutally hacked to death by unidentified assailants in Odisha’s Malkangiri district on Saturday, July 12, 2025. This heinous act, which took place near Muruliguda under the Motu police station limits, is a direct attack on press freedom and the safety of journalists in India. According to reports, Naresh Kumar was engaged in conversation with fellow journalists when five unidentified miscreants on two motorcycles attacked him with a sword around 6 PM, fleeing the scene immediately after the assault. This unprovoked and barbaric act underscores the growing dangers faced by journalists in the line of duty, particularly in regions where lawlessness threatens the free press.IJU President and former member of the Press Council of India, Geetartha Pathak, expressed profound grief and outrage, stating:
“The murder of Naresh Kumar is a chilling reminder of the risks journalists face while upholding the truth. This is not just an attack on an individual but an assault on the very pillars of democracy. We demand a high-level inquiry under the supervision of a sitting judge to ensure swift justice and to uncover any underlying motives behind this gruesome crime. The safety of journalists must be prioritized to protect the fourth estate.”IJU Secretary General Sabina Inderjit echoed these sentiments, adding:
“The killing of Naresh Kumar in broad daylight is a stark indication of the deteriorating safety for journalists in Odisha and across India. We urge the Odisha government to immediately institute a high-level investigation to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice. Furthermore, we call for concrete measures to ensure the safety and security of journalists, including the enactment of a comprehensive protection law for media professionals. The state must act decisively to prevent such tragedies and safeguard press freedom. “The IJU stands in solidarity with Naresh Kumar’s family, friends, and colleagues during this time of immense grief. We demand that the Odisha government take immediate steps to address this crisis, including providing adequate compensation to the victim’s family and implementing robust mechanisms to protect journalists from violence and intimidation.The IJU reiterates its call for a nationwide policy to ensure the safety and security of journalists, who play a critical role in upholding democracy and accountability. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and press for justice in this case.
