Janjgir-Champa, Chhattisgarh: A serious case involving alleged misuse of journalism as a cover for extortion and intimidation has surfaced in Janjgir-Champa district. Public representatives from Gram Panchayat Putpura have submitted a formal memorandum to the Superintendent of Police, demanding strict legal action against a youth accused of posing as a journalist and obstructing government development work.
According to the written complaint submitted by Sarpanch Suchita Devi Rathore along with ward members, the incident occurred on February 2, 2025, during the construction of a CC road in Ward No. 05 under Navagarh Janpad Panchayat. A youth identified as Deepak Tiwari, a resident of village Tilai, allegedly arrived at the construction site claiming to be a journalist.
The complaint alleges that the accused pressured panchayat representatives, threatened workers, instigated laborers to stop work, and used abusive language. It is further alleged that he misbehaved with women present at the site, creating chaos and forcing the construction work to be halted for several hours. Officials have termed the act as a direct obstruction of government development activities.
The matter reportedly escalated when the accused later visited the Sarpanch’s residence and allegedly demanded money in the name of “advertising,” using intimidation linked to journalism. Upon inquiry with other panchayat representatives, it was revealed that Deepak Tiwari is not associated with any recognized newspaper, television channel, or media organization in the district.
The Sarpanch stated in her complaint that if strict action is not taken against such fake journalists, panchayat functioning and other government works will continue to face disruptions. She has urged the police administration to initiate strong legal proceedings against the accused to prevent further misuse of the media’s credibility.
Sources also claim that the accused may have attempted similar acts of extortion and intimidation elsewhere, raising broader concerns about the exploitation of journalism’s identity for personal gain.
Police officials have confirmed that the matter is under investigation. The incident has sparked debate over whether authorities will take decisive action against individuals allegedly tarnishing the credibility of journalism, or if such activities will continue unchecked under false identities.