Karnataka

Ravi Belagere

Hai Bangalore

Koliwad

Belagere

A recent resolution in theLegislature to punish journalists with one-year imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10,000 based on the recommendations of the privilege committee has triggered an intense debate in the media world over the Freedom of Speech. The privilege committee headed by Congress MLA Kimmane Rathnakar had recommended one-year jail term and fine to journalistsofand Anil Raj of Yelahanka Voice. The decision has yet again whipped up the on-going confrontation between legislature and media in Karnataka.Reacting sharply over the resolution, journalist Anil Raj said, "I will appeal against the decision of Speaker KBin the HC for holding me guilty of publishing reports on corruption by Yelahanka MLA SR Vishwanath." Similarly, noted journalist and editor of Hai Bangalore, Ravi Belagere, has also been ordered to undergo one-year imprisonment and was imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 on Wednesday. Siraguppa MLA Nagaraj had complained to the privilege committee about Ravi Belagere's publication. "There is no need to attach so much importance to this order as we can appeal before the HC and SC. I am yet to get a copy of the order. Previously, I was ordered to undergo six months of imprisonment. Soon after Koliwad became Speaker, it has been increased to one year. I have high regards for the Speaker,"told Bangalore Mirror.In his defence, Yelahanka MLA SR Vishwanath said the punishment has been awarded to Anil Raj as the privilege committee found articles published against him were untrue. Vishwanath said the committee's decision was right as Anil Raj had been consistently writing derogatory and defamatory articles using abusive language against him. He said there were several examples of bad language used against him, which were reason enough to institute the action.Meanwhile, Siraguppa MLA BM Nagaraj said this order indicates that baseless articles should not be published. “Hai Bangalore had published a series of baseless and defamatory articles against me and my family. The issue was brought to the privilege committee with all the necessary proof. The tabloid had also published articles on Speaker KB Koliwad. Reacting to the recent order, Speaker Koliwad told Bangalore Mirror that the session had accepted the report submitted by the privilege committee of the house. Future course of action would be taken according to law, he added.