Admin asks Journalists to furnish Aadhaar, PAN, affiliation letters, digital platform details

The District Information Office (DIO) Pulwama has issued a formal circular directing all journalists and media personnel operating in the district to submit their professional credentials and identification details within seven days, as part of a verification and vigilance drive aimed at curbing the misuse of media identity cards.

The directive, issued by the District Information Officer Pulwama, follows the orders of the Joint Director Information, Kashmir (Vide No. INF/K-Estt.2091-98/2025. The circular emphasizes “vigilance, monitoring, and reporting of misuse of media identity and impersonation in District Pulwama,” seeking to establish a transparent system for bona fide media professionals.

According to the order, journalists have been asked to submit credentials, which include Aadhaar and PAN cards, appointment letters, organisation contact details, six months’ salary or bank statements, academic qualification certificates, and links to Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), and Instagram pages of the respective media outlets they represent.

Officials said the move is intended to protect the credibility of professional journalists and check the growing issue of impersonation and unverified media activity. “This step is not against any genuine journalist; it’s meant to safeguard responsible journalism and prevent misuse of media identity,” an official told Kashmir News Trust.

Copies of the circular have been forwarded to the District Magistrate Pulwama, Director Information & PR J&K, Senior Superintendent of Police Pulwama/Awantipora, and the Joint Director Information Kashmir for necessary action and record.

The DIO Pulwama has urged all media professionals to comply within the stipulated time frame to avoid inconvenience and to help maintain the integrity of journalism in the district.