It is not hidden that many Kashmiri journalists have been spreaders of separatism. If questioned, they claim press freedom while tacitly providing cover to anti-state activities. The law of land must catch up with such individuals - they aren't angels who shouldn't be touched.

It is rather amusing to see the commentariat using the term 'draconian' for laws which demand accountability especially in J&K. Unless one is a fiction writer, fabricating stories (or espousing anti-state activities) which can disturb law and order must be penalized.

For too long, the game of separatism has been played in J&K by many including the mediapersons. If accountability is sought which demands an action, then nothing wrong in it. It must be taken to its conclusion. Responsible journalism stands on its own; agitprop must be quashed.

The media in Kashmir has often glorified terrorists from time to time. You can go back in time to 1986-1987 or 1990s or as recently as 2016 to get an idea. Sample the Kashmiri media's slant when Hizb terrorist Burhan Wani was killed in 2016. You will get the drift.

The nexus between Kashmiri separatists, Pakistan's ISI and Kashmiri media is well-known. The media has acted as campaigner for 'resistance' against 'Indian occupation' while tom-tomming about rights and justice. What I'm saying is not a revelation.

In fact, sections of Indian media have been complicit in this tom-tomming. Remember Ghulam Nabi Fai's circuit attended by who's who of the commentariat? One of the attendees was former interlocutor to J&K appointed by then Indian Government. Now you can ponder how deep it goes.

The rot in ecosystem of J&K, which runs deep, needs cleansing if the government is serious about resolving the mess - the media in Kashmir being one part of it. The initiation of proceedings must reach its logical conclusion; otherwise it will be another futile exercise.