Award-Winning Investigative Journalist Bilal Bhat Seeks Protection After Alleged Assault During Environmental Reporting in Kashmir
Srinagar, August 5: (JKNN) Investigative journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Awami Reporter, Bilal Ahmad Bhat, has sought protection from the authorities after alleging that he has faced threats, intimidation and a recent physical assault while reporting on environmental issues and alleged illegal constructions in Jammu and Kashmir.
Bhat, who holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Kashmir and has worked with national and international media organizations, has spent recent years focusing on investigative reporting related to environmental conservation, public accountability and alleged illegal construction in ecologically sensitive areas.
According to Bhat, his reporting has included investigations into alleged unauthorized constructions in Pahalgam, environmental concerns surrounding the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra corridor, and issues relating to Dal Lake, Gurez Valley, Gulmarg and other fragile ecosystems. He states that these investigations were undertaken in the public interest and in support of environmental protection.
Bhat alleges that, following these reports, he began receiving threats and intimidation. He further states that he has submitted representations and supporting material to the competent authorities seeking protection and investigation.
In his latest complaint, Bhat alleges that on 1 August 2026, while reporting on alleged illegal earth-filling activities at Ranger Stop, Saidakadal, he was assaulted by a group of persons. He states that he sustained injuries, sought medical treatment, and reported the matter to the police. He has also requested preservation of CCTV footage and other electronic evidence that he says may assist the investigation.
Bhat has expressed concern over what he describes as the lack of significant investigative progress in the days following his complaint and has appealed to senior civil and police authorities to ensure a fair, impartial and expeditious investigation in accordance with law. He has also requested that the authorities consider providing appropriate police protection after assessing the security risks associated with his work.
Recognized for his investigative journalism, Bhat has previously received recognition for his work against corruption. Notably, his news portal, Newstock—Kashmir’s first investigative news portal—was honoured by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir for its journalistic contribution.
Bhat has maintained that his work is directed toward environmental protection, transparency and public accountability and is not against any community or law-abiding citizens. He has appealed for the safety of journalists reporting on matters of public interest and has urged that those responsible for any unlawful acts, if established through investigation, be proceeded against strictly in accordance with law.
The matter remains before the concerned authorities. An official response regarding the allegations and the status of the investigation was awaited at the time of publication.
(JKNN)
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