The India Freedom of Expression Initiative (IFEI) has welcomed the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) order directing Rs 10 lakh in compensation to the family of journalist Shahdev Dey, owner of Republic Andaman, whose charred body was found on April 2 after he went missing on March 29.
On September 9, the NHRC instructed the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to provide Rs 5 lakh each to Dey’s family within two weeks.
Background
On April 3, Suhas Chakma, convenor of the IFEI, filed a complaint with the NHRC alleging that Dey, known for exposing illegal activities such as timber smuggling and gambling, was targeted and murdered to silence his reporting.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Inspector Vijay Kumar, SHO of Diglipur Police Station, conducted the probe. Four accused—S Gangaya (48), Ramasubramaniyan (47), Bithika Mallik (35), and M Ramesh (44)—have been arrested.
The investigation revealed a premeditated killing, motivated by Dey’s reporting on illegal activities. Statements from key witnesses and seized evidence strengthened the prosecution case. The accused are currently in judicial custody at District Jail, Mayabunder, with the charge sheet pending expert opinion from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory, Hyderabad.
NHRC Statement
The NHRC noted: “As the killing of said journalist was established because of his daring reporting of illegal activities going on in the said area, the Commission deems it a fit case where the victim’s family is to be provided with monetary compensation.”
Suhas Chakma said in a press release: “Journalists across the country are facing increased threats, especially from non-State actors, to their lives and liberties because of their profession. The order of the NHRC and prosecution of the accused is a step in the right direction to protect journalists.”
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