IFEI welcomes NHRC order on compensation to murdered Andaman journalist Shahdev Dey

The NHRC has directed Rs 10 lakh compensation to the family of journalist Shahdev Dey, whose charred body was found in Andaman. IFEI welcomed the order as police arrested four suspects, citing his reporting on illegal activities as the motive

Hyderabad: The India Freedom of Expression Initiative (IFEI) has welcomed the directions of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to award compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the family of journalist Shahdev Dey, owner of the local news channel Republic Andaman, whose charred body was found on April 2 after he went missing on March 29.

On September 9, the NHRC directed the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to provide monetary compensation of Rs 5 lakh each within two weeks. On April 3, Suhas Chakma, convenor of the IFEI, filed a complaint with the NHRC alleging that journalist Shahdev Dey, known for exposing illegal activities such as timber smuggling and gambling, was targeted and murdered to silence his fearless reporting.

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In its report to the NHRC, the Andaman Police stated that FIR No. 24/2025 dated 01/04/2025 was registered at Diglipur Police Station under sections 103(1)/61(2)/238 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023, and investigation was taken up under the supervision of Inspector Vijay Kumar, SHO of Diglipur Police Station. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was constituted to ensure impartial, transparent and expeditious investigation into the murder of the journalist. Four accused persons, S Gangaya (48), Ramasubramaniyan (47), Bithika Mallik (35) and M Ramesh (44), were arrested.

The statements of key witnesses have been recorded before the court, strengthening the prosecution case. The accused confessed to the crime and the seized evidence substantiates the premeditated nature of the offence, indicating a clear motive linked to the deceased’s reporting on illegal activities in the locality. It was also stated that the investigation was at its concluding stage, with filing of charge sheet pending only upon receipt of expert opinion from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory, Hyderabad. The accused are presently under judicial custody at District Jail, Mayabunder.

The NHRC in its order stated: “As the killing of said journalist was established because of his daring reporting of illegal activities going on in the said area, the Commission deems it a fit case where the victim’s family is to be provided with monetary compensation.”

“Journalists across the country are facing increased threats, especially from non-State actors, to their lives and liberties because of their profession. The order of the NHRC and prosecution of the accused is a step in the right direction to protect journalists,” Suhas Chakma said in a press release.