An act of balancing? FIR against journalist over report on Kalamassery blasts on Maktoob Media

Kozhikode: After a number of FIRs against news media outlets and politicians, including the Union Minister, the Kerala police have booked a freelance journalist over a news report which was published on Maktoob Media's Malayalam online page in connection with the Kalamassery blasts that occurred in October 2023.

The police charged freelance journalist Rejaz M Sheeba Sydeek over his news report, in which he delved into the detention of Muslim youths in connection with the incident, alleging it was provocative with the intent to cause a riot.

Critics view the Vadakkara police's registration of a suo-moto case against Rejaz as an act of balancing, given the FIRs in connection with fake and Islamophobic news by certain media, allegedly aimed at dividing people on the grounds of faith. At the same time, no FIR has been filed on the allegations of anti-Muslim bias.

The report, dated October 30, asserted that the police were biased against Muslims and alleged the detention of Muslim youths without substantial leads. The FIR, dated October 31, invoked Section 153 of the Indian Penal Code, claiming that the journalist intended to incite a riot.

Rejaz stated that his report is based on facts and not a fabricated story. He asserts that he has call records to support his claims, having contacted both the detained individuals and the Aluva police station to confirm the detention.

The Aluva Rural Superintendent of Police, however, denied the allegations when questioned by Rejaz, stating that the individuals were taken into custody due to their association with internal security concerns.

Maktoob Media CEO Shamseer Ibrahim confirmed that the Vadakara police interrogated the portal's editor, Aslah Kayyalakkath, on November 16 in connection with the case.

The media outlet condemned the FIR, deeming the investigation arbitrary and expressing unwavering support for the reporter. In a public statement, Maktoob asserted its commitment to journalistic independence and declared its intention to provide legal aid to Rejaz.

The Kalamassery blasts unfolded at a Jehovah's Witnesses Convention in the Zamra Center on October 29, resulting in five casualties. The subsequent detention of Nizamuddin and others on the same evening added a layer of complexity to the investigation.

Dominic Martin, a spoken English teacher, later claimed responsibility for the attack, citing his dissatisfaction with the religious sect.

Rejaz, who has been working as a freelance journalist for the past three years, focusing on human rights, politics, and state atrocities, is now summoned by the Vadakara police to record his statement on November 17.

The case has raised concerns about the implications for journalistic independence, with Maktoob Media insisting that they have been singled out for reporting a crucial story that holds the police accountable.