Mumbai Press Club

A professional platform, serving the interests of journalists since 1970.
Annually convenes prestigious National RedInk Awards.
Member Press Council of India.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

The Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns the attack on journalists and media personnel who were carrying out their professional duties while covering the protest at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi.

This incident is deeply disturbing and constitutes a direct assault on the freedom of the press, a cornerstone of every democratic society. Journalists have a fundamental responsibility to report events impartially, inform the public, and uphold transparency. Any attempt to intimidate, assault, or obstruct media professionals in the discharge of their duties is unacceptable and undermines the public’s right to access information.

The safety and security of journalists must be protected at all times, irrespective of the nature of the event they are covering. It is the collective responsibility of the authorities, law enforcement agencies, and organisers of public gatherings to ensure that media personnel can perform their work freely, safely, and without fear of violence or intimidation.

We urge the concerned authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial, and transparent investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and take appropriate legal action against the perpetrators. Accountability in such cases is essential to reinforce public confidence in the rule of law and to safeguard press freedom.

A free and independent press is an indispensable pillar of democracy. Any attack on journalists is an attack on democratic values and the people’s right to know. Such acts must be condemned unequivocally and dealt with firmly.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

The Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns the alleged threats and intimidation by Shiv Sena Member of Parliament Sanjay Dina Patil against television journalists who were carrying out their professional duties.

On Thursday, a group of television reporters covering developments related to the reported split within Shiv Sena (UBT) approached MP Sanjay Patil for his reaction. After initially speaking to the media on record, journalists asked him about reports concerning his daughter, a corporator who is said to be supporting Shiv Sena (UBT). According to journalists present, Mr. Patil then lost his temper and allegedly threatened them, saying: "If you ask me further questions, I will beat you up. If you come again to ask me questions, I will beat you up. I am saying this in front of the police. Go and report it to the Mumbai Police Commissioner."

Threatening journalists with physical violence for asking legitimate questions is an attack on press freedom and the democratic principles that protect the media's right to report without fear or intimidation. Such conduct, particularly from a sitting Member of Parliament, is unacceptable and inconsistent with the responsibilities of public office.

The Mumbai Press Club unequivocally condemns the alleged abusive language and threats made by MP Sanjay Patil. We call upon the Shiv Sena leadership to take immediate cognisance of this serious incident, counsel Mr. Patil on the responsibilities that accompany elected office, and ensure that he issues an unconditional public apology to the journalists he allegedly threatened.

We also urge the Mumbai Police to take appropriate note of the incident and ensure that journalists are able to discharge their professional responsibilities without fear of intimidation or violence.

A free and independent press is a cornerstone of every vibrant democracy. Any attempt to threaten, intimidate or silence journalists for asking legitimate questions strikes at the heart of democratic accountability and must be condemned unequivocally.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Some men see the world. Raghu Rai showed it to us.

Today, with the passing of one of India’s most celebrated photojournalists at the age of 83, a light goes out, but the images it cast upon our collective conscience will never fade. For over six decades, Raghu Rai did not merely photograph India; he bore witness to it. With patience, empathy, and an unerring eye, he transformed fleeting moments into permanent truths, the anguish of Bhopal, the chaos of war, the quiet grace of Mother Teresa, the turbulent dignity of a nation finding itself.

It was Henri Cartier-Bresson, the master of the decisive moment, who recognised in Rai a kindred spirit nominating him to Magnum Photos in 1977 and placing him among the immortals of world photography. A Padma Shri awardee and author of nearly 40 books, Rai described himself as an ‘explorer of life.He believed that a photograph was not just an image it was the first evidence of history.

The Mumbai Press Club carries a memory close to its heart. A few years ago, Shri Raghu Rai joined us online to inaugurate the Mumbai Press Club’s photography website. Despite the distance, his presence filled the room. He spoke with the warmth of a mentor and the generosity of a giant encouraging our members and photographers, and offering with characteristic humility that should the initiative ever need any support, we need only reach out. Those words lit a fire in every photographer present that day. To have a legend of his stature believe in our endeavour was not just an honour it was a responsibility we shall always carry forward.

He leaves behind his evidence in abundance. And in it, India will always find a mirror.

The Mumbai Press Club bows its head in grief and gratitude. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Gurmeet, son Nitin, and daughters Lagan, Avani, and Purvai.

His shutter has closed. But his vision endures.

#raghurai

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

The Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns the sealing of the office of United News of India (UNI) in Delhi, an action that has caused deep concern across the media fraternity.

Reports of staff being forcibly evicted without being allowed to collect their personal belongings, the alleged manhandling of female journalists, and misconduct by certain Delhi Police personnel—including claims of intoxication while on duty—are extremely disturbing. The reported abuse of individuals by police personnel and lawyers further reflects a serious breakdown of professional conduct and accountability.

Such actions not only undermine the dignity and safety of journalists but also raise serious concerns about press freedom and the ability of media institutions to function without fear or intimidation.

We urge the authorities to ensure a prompt, impartial, and transparent inquiry into the incident, and to fix accountability for any excesses or misconduct. It is equally important to take immediate steps to restore confidence within the journalistic community and safeguard the rights and independence of the press.

Sincerely,
Hon. Secretary

[United News of India @uniindianews]

The sealing of the office of United News of India (UNI), one of the country’s oldest and most respected news agencies, has raised serious concerns over press freedom.

📌 Staff members were forcibly evicted, with several not allowed to retrieve their personal belongings.

📌 Female journalists were manhandled by teams of Delhi Police.

📌 Some Delhi Police personnel were intoxicated while on duty.

📌 Two lawyers and Delhi Police personnel abused several individuals.

@PMOIndia | @HMOIndia | @AmitShah | @DelhiPolice | @CMODelhi | @gupta_rekha | #UnitedNewsOfIndia | #UNI | #PressFreedom |
#JournalismUnderThreat | #MediaFreedom | #FreePress | #UNIUnderAttack

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Statement from the Mumbai Press Club on Threat Email

The Mumbai Press Club received a threat email on its official email on March 19, 2026. The email came to notice on the morning of March 20, following which Secretary Mayuresh Ganapatye promptly reported the matter to Azad Maidan Police Station. DCP Zone I, Pravin Munde, was also informed.
Subsequently, teams from the Azad Maidan Police, along with the Cyber Cell, Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad, and Dog Squad, reached the Press Club premises and carried out a thorough search. No suspicious object was found during the operation.
The cyber team has collected details of the email content and the originating email ID for further investigation.
The Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns this malicious and alarming threat. The Club has always upheld and promoted liberal, secular, and democratic values, and has consistently stood against all forms of extremism and violence.
With a membership of over 3,000 journalists, the Mumbai Press Club will not be intimidated by such threats and remains committed to its principles.
Mumbai Police are continuing their investigation, and the Press Club is extending full cooperation to the authorities.

Secretary
Mumbai Press Club

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

The Mumbai Press Club is pleased to announce that Dr. Anubha Jain has been selected as the recipient of the Mumbai Press Club – N. R. Prakash Fellowship for Science & Technology 2025 for her proposal titled:

“AI and Precision Agriculture: How Drones, Sensors, and Machine Learning Are Building Climate-Resilient Farms for the 2030s.”

Dr. Anubha Jain is an award-winning bilingual journalist, author, and thought leader with over two decades of experience across print, television, radio, and digital media. She currently contributes to ETV Bharat and BBC News, reporting on key areas such as space, science, health, and technology. Known for her incisive storytelling and in-depth reportage, Dr. Jain has covered landmark moments in India’s scientific journey, including ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission and the Aditya L1 Solar Mission. Her reporting has helped contextualize India’s expanding footprint in space exploration and emerging technologies, including quantum innovation, for a wide and diverse readership.

The winning proposal was selected by an eminent three-member jury comprising Mr. S. Srinivasan, Co-founder and Managing Trustee of LOCOST; Mr. Prabhakar Nair, former writer with Science Today; and Mrityunjay Bose, senior journalist.

As part of the six-month Fellowship, Dr. Jain will produce a comprehensive long-form article on the selected theme. The Fellowship carries a grant of ₹50,000 and has been instituted to encourage serious, well-researched, and insightful writing on contemporary issues in science and technology.

We extend our warm congratulations to Dr. Anubha Jain and wish her every success in this endeavour.

About the Fellowship
The Mumbai Press Club – N. R. Prakash Fellowship for Science & Technology is supported by the family of the late N. R. Prakash and has been instituted in his memory. An engineer by profession, N. R. Prakash was deeply committed to applying scientific and technological solutions across diverse fields—whether in petrochemical plants, kitchens, or gardens—reflecting his belief in the transformative power of practical innovation.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

It is with profound grief that we mourn the sad demise of Senior Photojournalist and Vice Chairman of the Mumbai Press Club, Rajanish Kakade.

Rajanish, 55, was not only a seasoned lensman but also a guiding force for generations of young photojournalists. Through his work, he captured defining moments with integrity and sensitivity. Through his mentorship, he shaped countless careers, always encouraging young photographers to pursue the truth with courage and compassion. His contribution to Mumbai’s journalistic fraternity went far beyond photographs — he built people, strengthened institutions, and upheld the finest traditions of the press.

A recipient of several national and international awards, Rajanish began his career with the Sakal Group before joining the Hindustan Times, where he worked for three years. He later joined the Associated Press and had been with the organization for the past eighteen years.

His passing leaves a deep void in the media community. He will be remembered for his humility, sharp eye, unwavering commitment to journalism, and his nurturing spirit towards budding talent. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire fraternity of journalists and photographers. His legacy will continue to inspire.

His mortal remains will be kept at his residence and will be taken to the Shivaji Park Crematorium at 11 a.m.

Our hearts go out to his family, and may they find the strength to bear this immense loss.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

The tragic news of the untimely demise of Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and a valued well-wisher of the Mumbai Press Club, in a plane crash has left us deeply shocked and saddened. His passing marks an irreparable loss of a dynamic leader who had a long and impactful public life ahead of him. We extend our heartfelt condolences and strength to his family during this extremely difficult time. Ajit Pawar leaves behind a lasting legacy of dedicated public service. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
#AjitPawar

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Club Statement on Saturday Incident

Over the weekend, some videos showing an altercation between the Press Club President and a reporter circulated widely on social media, accompanied by various narratives. In this context, we would like to clarify the facts surrounding the incident.

Just before the screening of a documentary organized as part of the Saturday Film Club, Convener had requested the cameramen present to wait outside the conference hall due to space constraints. The cameras and tripods were blocking the entrance and making it difficult for members to be seated comfortably.

While most cameramen cooperated with the request, a few declined, stating that they had been instructed by a political party to cover the event — even though the Club had not extended any invitation for media coverage. This led to a heated exchange between the Club President and one of the reporters, which was unfortunate and avoidable.

The Managing Committee is looking into the matter and take appropriate steps to ensure that such incidents do not recur. The Club remains committed to maintaining the values, decorum, and dignity of the institution, and to fostering a spirit of respect and professionalism among all members and guests.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

MPC Statement on Taliban Foreign Minister Muttaki’s Remarks Regarding the Killing of Photojournalist Danish Siddiqui

The Mumbai Press Club expresses deep concern and outrage over the killing of Pulitzer Prize-winning Indian photojournalist Danish Siddiqui by the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2021. During a recent press conference, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaki expressed regret over the killing of journalists, including Siddiqui, during their conflict. While this acknowledgment is noted, it remains grossly inadequate.

We demand that the Government of India take serious note of this statement and formally seek an unconditional apology from the Taliban government for the brutal killing of Danish Siddiqui, who was performing his professional duty, courageously covering the war to bring truth to the world. His murder represents not only a grave injustice to his family but also a direct attack on press freedom and the safety of journalists globally.

The Mumbai Press Club also appreciates independent journalist @Smita_Sharma for fearlessly raising this sensitive and important issue with the Taliban leadership, keeping alive the demand for accountability and justice for Danish Siddiqui.
@DSFAsiaOrg #DanishSiddiqui

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Third N.R. Prakash Fellowship for Science & Technology Reporting.

The Mumbai Press Club launched the N.R. Prakash Fellowship in 2022 to promote in-depth journalism in Science and Technology. We are pleased to announce the third edition of the Fellowship.

While technology misuse has caused immense damage, it is also scientific progress and innovation that drive humanity forward. Yet, the media often underplays both the promise and the perils of Science and Technology. This Fellowship aims to bridge that gap by encouraging rigorous, original, and socially relevant reporting.

Who can apply?

Journalists across India are invited to pitch well-researched story ideas in science and technology, including ecology, agriculture, food sciences, medicine, engineering, IT, AI, robotics, and education. Stories may focus on India or cover global developments with universal impact. Priority will be given to proposals that highlight emerging technologies offering solutions to social or economic challenges, while also addressing ethical, political, and environmental concerns.

Fellowship Terms:
Cash award of ₹50,000 (disbursed in two installments)
Duration: Six months
Fellows must produce a long-form article for publication
Selection by a jury of scientists, engineers, and journalists
Applications must outline the proposed topic and its relevance. A short career profile of the applicant should be attached
Deadline: Submit proposals to [email protected] by 30 October 2025.

About N R Prakash
The Fellowship is supported by the family of N.R. Prakash, and has been instituted in his memory. N. R. Prakash was an engineer who, throughout his working life, sought to apply scientific and technological solutions across various disciplines and work spheres, whether in petrochemical plants, kitchens, or gardens. A mechanical engineer specialist in applied dynamics and stress analysis, he was sought after as a ‘problem solver’ across various sub-disciplines. He lamented the dearth of good media reporting on science and technology issues. Having worked across industries and countries, he retired as Sr Vice President of Reliance Industries.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns the shocking assault on Saam Television reporter Vikas Mirgane by a police officer at Girgaon Chowpatty on Saturday.

Vikas Mirgane, along with his cameraman, was waiting for their driver who had briefly stepped away from their vehicle. Despite their request for patience, Assistant Police Inspector Shantaram Naik chose to argue, lost his temper, and outrageously slapped the reporter over a parking issue.

Such behaviour is unacceptable, unbecoming of the police force, and deserves the strongest condemnation. The incident calls for immediate and strict disciplinary action against the officer involved.

We urge the Mumbai Police Commissioner to take prompt and exemplary action against the erring officer and direct the force to desist from browbeating working journalists. The police must ensure an environment of respect, cooperation, and coexistence with the press.
@CPMumbaiPolice

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Wishing you and your family a joyous Ganesh Chaturthi filled with peace, prosperity, and happiness.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

The Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns the Assam Police for filing a fresh FIR under the sedition law against The Wire, its founding editor Siddharth Varadarajan, and senior journalist Karan Thapar.

Assam Police have asked Varadarajan and Thapar to appear before the investigating officer at the Crime Branch in Guwahati on August 22 by issuing summons under various section of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS). It has been alleged by The Wire that the summons were issued without a dated FIR, without details of the alleged offence, and without providing a copy of the FIR — all of which the police are legally bound to furnish when serving a summons under this section of the BNSS.

Notably, the summons came on the very day the Supreme Court issued notice on The Wire’s petition challenging the constitutionality of the new sedition law and protected its journalists, including Varadarajan, from any coercive action in a separate case filed in Morigaon in July, the website said.

The Mumbai Press Club expresses deep concern over the continuing harassment of The Wire and its editors. We call upon the journalist fraternity to stand united in support of The Wire and to resist all attempts to muzzle the press through intimidation and coercion.

We also urge the Assam Police to immediately end what is clearly a witch hunt against the publication and its editors.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

May the spirit of freedom and unity live in our hearts forever. Happy 78th Independence Day!

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Recently retired Supreme Court judge Justice Abhay Oka delivered a distinguished lecture at the Mumbai Press Club on “Holding the Government to Account: The Role of an Independent Judiciary and a Free Press.”
Here is the link to his speech:
https://t.co/tkaCQDaA6B

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

Mumbai Press Club Strongly Condemns Assault on Journalist by MLA Jitendra Awhad

The Mumbai Press Club strongly condemns the shocking incident inside the Maharashtra Assembly premises where NCP (Sharad Pawar) MLA Jitendra Awhad was seen hitting a journalist who was performing his professional duty. Video footage of this incident clearly shows Mr. Awhad physically assaulting the reporter who was recording his interaction with Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Ambadas Danve. Such behaviour by an elected representative is absolutely unacceptable and raises serious concerns about the safety and security of journalists covering the Assembly session.

The Assembly premises are a democratic space where journalists have the right to report freely without fear or intimidation. An assault like this not only violates the freedom of the press but also sends out a dangerous message to the entire journalist community.

The Mumbai Press Club demands that the Hon’ble Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and the Hon’ble Chief Minister take immediate and strict action against Mr. Jitendra Awhad for this shameful act. We also demand that concrete measures be put in place to ensure the safety of all journalists who are covering the proceedings of the House.

No elected leader has the right to raise a hand on a journalist. We stand firmly with our colleague and reiterate that attacks on the press will not be tolerated.

[Mumbai Press Club @mumbaipressclub]

https://t.co/s2GeXTaZjm

South Asia in Flux: Decoding the New Geopolitical Order
At the Mumbai Press Club Knowledge Series, renowned strategic affairs expert Pravin Sawhney delivered an incisive analysis on the shifting geopolitical dynamics in South Asia and India’s evolving role.

Esteemed attendees included MP Sanjay Raut, former CM Prithviraj Chavan, veteran journalist Kumar Ketkar, economist Dr. Bhalchandra Mungekar, and several journalists.

A thought-provoking session that sparked critical conversations on India’s strategic future.

#Geopolitics #SouthAsia #PraveenSawhney #MumbaiPressClub #IndiaInFocus #StrategicAffairs #NewWorldOrder @PravinSawhney

https://t.co/s2GeXTaZjm