US Press Club condemns assault on Indian journalist by Congress workers in Dallas; calls it a violation of First Amendment rights

US Press Club condemn manhandling of Indian journalist Rohit Sharma

The US National Press Club has issued a statement condemning the recent assault on journalist Rohit Sharma by members of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC) during an interview with Sam Pitroda in Dallas. This incident, which has been downplayed by Congress leaders, raises serious concerns about the party’s respect for press freedom and democratic principles.

According to a detailed statement from US Press Club President Emily Wilkins, members of the IOC and Sam Pitroda were present during the interview when chaos erupted. As Sharma attempted to ask a question regarding the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh, he was met with hostility from the audience. They reportedly shouted him down, physically pushed him, and forcibly took his phone, deleting files in the process.

This troubling behavior not only reflects poorly on the IOC but also raises questions about the Congress party’s commitment to free speech and open dialogue. The Press Club noted that Sharma had previously interviewed Pitroda without incident, indicating that this aggression was both unprovoked and unnecessary.

In her statement, Wilkins highlighted that the actions taken by the IOC members constituted a violation of Sharma’s First Amendment rights, which protect freedom of the press. The incident underscores a disturbing trend within Congress to silence dissenting voices and evade accountability.

Rohit Sharma’s experience is emblematic of a broader issue regarding the treatment of journalists in political settings, particularly when uncomfortable questions are raised. The US Press Club also pointed out that while Pitroda later apologized for the incident, the aggressive response from his supporters was unacceptable and indicative of a larger problem within the party.

As Congress prepares for its engagements in the US, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fostering a culture of respect for the media and maintaining an open forum for discussion. The actions of IOC members in Dallas should prompt serious introspection within Congress about its approach to press freedom and accountability.

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