Press Council of India Issues Safety Guidelines for Journalists Covering Protests and Demonstrations

October 16, 2026

New Delhi: Journalists covering protests and demonstrations have been advised to take precautions against crowd-related risks, avoid interfering with police operations and verify information before publishing it. The Press Council of India (PCI) has issued a detailed safety advisory for media personnel working in tense and potentially volatile situations.

The Council said the guidelines are intended to help journalists carry out their work safely while maintaining professional standards and improving coordination between media organisations and law enforcement agencies.

Carry ID Cards and Maintain Neutrality

The PCI has asked journalists to carry valid identity cards issued by their media organisations or PIB/DIP accreditation. Their identification should remain visible, preferably on a lanyard secured to reduce the risk of it getting caught during movement.

While covering demonstrations, journalists should remain neutral and avoid becoming part of the event they are reporting on. The advisory says they must not take sides, provoke confrontations or interfere with protesters, counter-protesters or police personnel.

Media workers should also remain respectful during tense exchanges, follow lawful police orders and avoid unnecessary arguments. They can calmly establish their press credentials when required.

Keep a Safe Distance and Carry Emergency Supplies

Journalists have been advised to move away from areas where tensions are escalating or police action is expected. Their equipment must not obstruct police movement or damage property. The PCI has specifically cautioned against attaching cameras or recording devices to police barricades, vehicles or other equipment.

The advisory also recommends carrying a small emergency kit with basic first-aid supplies, drinking water, high-protein snacks, a flashlight and protective goggles.

One of its strongest warnings concerns tear-gas canisters, flash-bang devices and smoke grenades. Journalists should never pick up or attempt to move these items, as they may still be hot, explode or contain hazardous residue.

Verify Information Before Publishing

The PCI has stressed that journalists must check information with multiple sources and scrutinise statements from all sides rather than accepting claims at face value.

It has also warned media organisations against broadcasting or publishing live details of police positions, tactical movements or escape routes when disclosure could put people at risk or compromise operational security.

The advisory makes clear that getting exclusive footage should not come at the cost of a journalist’s safety. Reporters and camera crews working on the ground are expected to balance timely coverage with verification, professional conduct and precautions against potential hazards.