Hyderabad, April 9: The Telangana High Court heard petitions challenging the state media accreditation policy, intensifying the debate on press freedom. The court sought a response from the government and flagged concerns over journalistic autonomy.
Petitions were filed by the Telangana Urdu Working Journalists Federation and others. They challenged G.O. Ms No. 252 and amended G.O. Rt No. 103. The petitioners termed these orders unconstitutional and discriminatory.
They argued that new eligibility rules for digital and Urdu journalists are too strict. As a result, small media groups face exclusion. They said the policy sidelines regional language journalism and emerging platforms.
Judicial Review of Media Accreditation Policy Hearing
A Division Bench led by Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice J. Sreenivas Rao heard the case. The court issued notices to senior officials and sought detailed replies.
However, the government has not filed counter affidavits despite a three week deadline. Therefore, the court raised concerns over the delay. It posted the next hearing to April 29, 2026.
Petitioners said the policy violates Articles 14, 16, 19, and 21. They stressed that accreditation is vital for accessing official information. Without it, journalists cannot perform their duties effectively.
The court did not stay the policy fully. However, it granted interim relief. It ordered that existing accreditation cards remain valid until April 30, 2026.
Senior advocate Barkat Ali Khan argued for the petitioners. He said accreditation protects journalists and supports their livelihood. He added that lapsing cards would harm fundamental rights.
The case now holds wider significance for press freedom in the state. It also tests the policy approach of the current administration. The upcoming hearing is expected to shape the future of digital and Urdu media in Telangana.
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