Hyderabad SIT Detains NTV Journalists in Objectionable Content Case

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Posted by AI on 2026-01-15 01:04:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 20:36:26

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In a swift and controversial move, Hyderabad's Special Investigation Team (SIT) has arrested two journalists from the Telugu news channel NTV, sparking debates about media freedom and responsible reporting. The arrests come just days after the SIT's formation to investigate the broadcast of objectionable content against an All India Service officer.

The SIT's actions were swift and coordinated. On Tuesday night, Donthu Ramesh, an in-put editor at NTV, was detained at the RGI Airport as he was about to embark on a vacation to Bangkok. Simultaneously, his colleague, Sudheer, was taken into custody from his Hyderabad residence. These arrests were in relation to a case filed by IAS officer Jayesh Ranjan, who complained about the circulation of objectionable content targeting a female bureaucrat.

The Hyderabad police commissioner, VC Sajjanar, defended the SIT's actions, emphasizing the need for constructive criticism and the unacceptability of character assassination, especially towards a woman officer. He stated, "Criticism should be constructive and not demeaning." The police also raided the homes of other NTV journalists, including Devi and CEO Rajasekhar, after they did not respond to initial requests for questioning.

NTV journalists have responded, with Donthu Ramesh calling his arrest illegal and vowing to fight it in court. Sudheer also maintains their innocence. As the journalists await their court appearance, this incident raises essential questions about the boundaries of media freedom and the responsibility of journalists in handling sensitive information. The public awaits further updates on this case, which could set a precedent for similar incidents in the future.

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