Maldives Media Council (MMC) has stated that it will not accept intimidation and insults against journalists.
In a statement, MMC said it has been receiving complaints of insults, threats, and intimidation against journalists and media outlets. The statement reminded that freedom of the press is a constitutional right. The statement also said that it is unacceptable to enter the offices of any media outlet, physically and mentally harm journalists, threaten their lives, and spread unsubstantiated lies on social media platforms.
In addition, MMC said it believed there are threats to journalists fulfilling their responsibilities, noting the constant abuse and intimidation faced by a female journalist from Mihaaru News on social media platforms. The case has now been referred to the Maldives Police Service (MPS) for investigation, according to MMC.