Court Orders Release of Kashmiri Journalist, Affirms Criticism of Government Is Not a Crime

Kashmiri journalist Majid Hyderi has been released from detention following a significant ruling by the Jammu and Kashmir High Court, which declared his imprisonment unjust and emphasized that criticizing the government does not constitute a crime. The decision, delivered in late May 2025, has been welcomed by press freedom advocates as a crucial affirmation of democratic rights in India.

Hyderi, a senior journalist and frequent commentator on regional politics, was arrested in September 2023 under the Public Safety Act (PSA)—a law that allows detention without trial for up to two years. Authorities accused him of spreading “radical ideology” through his social media posts. However, his arrest sparked widespread condemnation, with critics calling it a blatant attempt to silence dissent and muzzle independent journalism in Jammu and Kashmir.

The High Court’s ruling made it clear that expressing opinions, even if critical of the government, is a protected constitutional right. Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, who presided over the case, quashed the detention order, stating that criticism alone is not a sufficient ground for preventive detention under the PSA. The court also highlighted procedural lapses and a lack of credible evidence presented by the authorities.

Reporters Without Borders (RSF), which had earlier called for Hyderi’s release, praised the decision, calling it a “landmark victory” for press freedom in India. The organization noted that the ruling sets a precedent against the misuse of security laws to target journalists and dissenting voices.

This decision comes amid growing concern over the shrinking space for free expression in Kashmir, where journalists have frequently faced intimidation, surveillance, and arrest. Human rights groups and media watchdogs have documented a troubling pattern of harassment against reporters who cover sensitive political or security-related topics.

Hyderi’s release not only restores his freedom but also sends a broader message about the importance of safeguarding democratic principles, especially in regions facing political unrest. Advocates now hope this case will prompt more judicial scrutiny of similar detentions and reinforce protections for journalists across India.