Lucknow, Monday, July 14, 2025 …………………………
Prominent legal rights activist Sanjay Sharma has raised a series of urgent demands with the Government of Uttar Pradesh following the suspicious death of senior journalist Dilip Sinha. Sharma, known for his advocacy on legal and civil rights, has submitted multiple RTI applications and formal complaints to various state authorities, highlighting what he describes as a "prima facie case of murder" and a broader campaign of blackmail and harassment against journalists in the state.
Key Demands Raised by Sanjay Sharma
1. Registration of FIR and Thorough Investigation
- Immediate registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant BNS sections, including those pertaining to murder, conspiracy, and abetment, in the death of Dilip Sinha.
- Disclosure of all FIRs, investigation reports, and the names of officers involved in the inquiry.
- Detailed investigation, including examination of CCTV footage, bus route records, driver duty charts, and forensic evidence to establish whether the incident was premeditated.
2. Formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT)
- Constitution of a Special Investigation Team to probe all pending complaints filed by Dilip Sinha regarding harassment and blackmail by organized gangs.
- SIT to be empowered to investigate and prosecute all individuals and masterminds named in the complaints, ensuring impartiality and thoroughness.
3. Action Against Blackmailing Syndicates
- Immediate legal proceedings against the gang of blackmailers and their leaders, who have allegedly harassed, defamed, and threatened Dilip Sinha and other journalists through false complaints and social media campaigns.
- Prosecution of those found guilty under the BNS and IT Act for blackmail, criminal intimidation, defamation, and conspiracy.
4. Compensation and Support for the Deceased Journalist’s Family
- Award of ₹5 Crores (Five Crore Rupees) as ex-gratia compensation to the legal heirs of Dilip Sinha in recognition of his service to journalism and the loss suffered by his family.
- Provision of government employment to a dependent and security cover for the bereaved family as per policy.
5. Protection of Journalists
- Implementation of robust measures to ensure the safety and dignity of accredited journalists, especially those facing threats, blackmail, or targeted violence.
- Strict action against individuals and groups attempting to undermine press freedom.
Background: The Case of Dilip Sinha
Dilip Sinha, a widely respected senior journalist, died after his scooter was struck by a speeding UPSRTC bus near Jiamau, Lohia Path, Lucknow. The bus driver reportedly absconded immediately after the incident. Only a pen and press card were found on Sinha, symbolizing his lifelong commitment to journalism. Sinha was known for his fearless reporting and was preparing to launch a digital platform at the time of his death.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the journalistic community, with many raising concerns about the possibility of foul play. Sinha had previously filed multiple complaints about harassment and blackmail by an organized gang targeting journalists in Uttar Pradesh. Allegations include systematic attempts to terminate press accreditations and defame journalists, especially women, through orchestrated social media campaigns and false complaints.
Unanswered Questions and Public Outcry
Sanjay Sharma’s complaints highlight several unanswered questions:
- Was the bus involved on its scheduled route, and who was the driver?
- What does the CCTV footage reveal about the incident?
- Why was the bus driver able to flee the scene in a high-security zone?
- What action has been taken on Sinha’s previous complaints about blackmail and harassment?
Official Submissions and Legal Action
Sharma has formally submitted:
- RTI applications to the Information Department and relevant police authorities seeking certified copies of FIRs, investigation details, and actions taken on Sinha’s complaints.
- Complaints to the Director General of Police and Chief Secretary demanding FIR registration, SIT formation, and compensation for Sinha’s family.
- Requests to the Information & Public Relations Department for an SIT inquiry into all pending matters related to the harassment and blackmailing of Dilip Sinha.
Conclusion
Sanjay Sharma’s campaign underscores the urgent need for transparent investigation, accountability, and protection for journalists in Uttar Pradesh. The demands for a high-level SIT, strict action against blackmailers, and substantial compensation for Sinha’s family highlight the gravity of the situation and the broader threat facing the journalistic community.
The case continues to draw widespread attention, with calls for justice and press freedom growing louder across the state.
