Gogoi says journalist's role in molestation case unethical

Guwahati, July 16 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi Monday termed the role of a local news channel journalist in the teenage girl's molestation case last week as "unethical", saying he should have informed police as soon as possible.

"This is not a case of ethical journalism. It is alright to film the incident as a part of his job. But he should have informed police about the incident," Gogoi told media persons outside the assembly after the first day of the monsoon session.

"The media blames the government and particularly the police on all accounts, but journalists, too, have responsible role to play in society and in this particular case they have failed miserably," he added.

"I am ready to meet the girl and we are going to help her by all means, including arranging proper rehabilitation for the girl," the chief minister said.

The role of a local TV news channel's journalist was first alleged by anti-dam activist Akhil Gogoi. He also submitted video footage of the incident to the state police chief and media on Friday, showing the journalist instigating the crowd to assault the girl.

The chief minister said he had already set up an inquiry commission headed by Additional Chief Secretary Emily Choudhury. "I have also directed police to form a special task force to deal with the increasing crime against women in Assam," he added.

"To analyse the crime situation in the state, I have asked the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) here to carry out research and steps will be taken accordingly to stop the rising crime graph against women," Gogoi added.

He also admitted there were lapses on the part of police primarily because there is shortage of manpower in the state police force.