NHRC orders compensation for Murdered Journalist, cites daring reporting as motive

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed the Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to provide a total compensation of Rs 10 lakhs to the family of journalist Shahdev Dey, whose charred body was found on April 2, 2025, after he went missing on March 29, 2025.

Dey was the owner of the local news channel 'Republic Andaman' and was known for exposing illegal activities such as timber smuggling and gambling.

The Andaman Police had registered an FIR and constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the murder.

According to the police report, FIR No. 24/2025 was registered at Diglipur Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. To ensure a thorough and unbiased investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed under the supervision of Inspector Vijay Kumar, SHO of Diglipur Police Station.

Four accused persons, S. Gangaya, Ramasubramaniyan, Bithika Mallik, and M. Ramesh, were arrested and confessed to the crime. The investigation revealed a clear motive linked to Dey's reporting on illegal activities in the locality.

The India Freedom of Expression Initiative (IFEI) welcomed the NHRC's direction, stating that it is a step in the right direction to protect journalists. "The journalists across the country are facing increased threats especially from non-State actors to their lives and liberties because of their profession of journalism," said Suhas Chakma, Convenor of IFEI.