The incident unfolded as the Youth Media TV journalist interviewed residents about their migration history and duration of stay in the area. When one local admitted to being from Bangladesh, the situation escalated.
The woman, who appeared agitated, demanded that the journalist stop filming. When the reporter refused to comply, she asked, “Sarkari ho? (Are you from the government?)” As the argument intensified, the journalist questioned if the area resembled Pakistan. The woman, unphased, shot back, “Pakistan hi samjh lo (Consider it as Pakistan).” She then implied that the journalist should report from more “democratic” places, suggesting a curtailment of press freedom in Kalindi Kunj.
Social media was soon flooded with reactions, dividing users into two groups. Some rallied for press freedom, supporting the journalist’s right to report without interference, while others highlighted the sensitive nature of refugee issues, stressing security concerns.
The episode also highlighted the ongoing issue of Rohingya refugee settlements in Delhi, particularly in Kalindi Kunj, where thousands of Rohingyas face difficulties accessing essential services due to the lack of Aadhaar cards. The Supreme Court has been involved in addressing these issues, urging NGOs to report on the refugees’ conditions and basic needs.
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