A growing number of newspapers in the Kashmir Valley have been systematically deprived of government advertisements—vital financial lifelines that sustain local journalism and ensure the survival of dozens of media outlets.
The practice, which media owners say became more pronounced after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, has left scores of publications struggling to stay afloat. Despite pledging allegiance to democratic principles and the Indian Constitution, several publishers allege that they are being sidelined without explanation, transparency, or any official communication.
“This is not about favour or privilege,” said one editor who wished to remain anonymous. “Government advertisements are a public responsibility, not a reward. Dozens of families depend on them. Starving newspapers of ads is a form of coercion.”
With ad revenues drying up, many employees—including reporters, designers, and printing staff, have not received their salaries for months. Media professionals, once at the heart of Kashmir’s democratic discourse, now find themselves trapped in financial uncertainty, largely due to what is being described as the “arrogance of the system.”
Critics argue that decision-makers, insulated in comfortable offices far removed from ground realities, fail to grasp the devastating impact such policies are having on ordinary lives.
“This is not just an economic issue, it’s about democratic space,” said another media house owner. “Silencing responsible voices through economic strangulation only weakens the institutions that make democracy possible.”
There has been no official response from the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) or the administration on the alleged targeting of select newspapers.
The office of Director Information where he was informed the Director is in Jammu. When called, there was no response.
The affected newspapers and their staff are now urging the government to treat media support as a democratic obligation rather than a discretionary act, and to ensure that public funds meant for awareness and outreach are distributed fairly across the press landscape. [KNT]
