Punjab Bans Zee Media Channels, Sparking Strong Reactions Throughout

The Punjab government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), outlawed Zee media outlets throughout the state. Allegedly, Zee Media likened the current condition of affairs to a "state of emergency."

Punjab's Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, has not yet made a remark on the subject. The government hasn't sent out an official letter on the ban, according to Zee media.

Zee News reportedly stated that the restriction was put in place as a result of Zee's criticism of the government. Zee News stated on their website that "the Mann government's action comes amidst our coverage of the Punjab Lok Sabha elections where we raised the issues of the people and highlighted the shortcomings of the government."

Captain Amarinder Singh, the former chief minister of Punjab, referred to this action as the "Murder of Democracy."

"It is clear that media is not allowed to show the truth in Punjab without the approval of Aam Aadmi Party-led state government," BJP leader Jawahar Yadav stated in an interview with Zee. He poked fun at those who said the media was "Godi Media" and invited them to voice their opinions about Zee media outlets being banned.

The public has already reacted negatively to the AAP administration in Punjab when BJP member Tajinder Bagga published a video purporting to show AAP politician Balkar Singh abusing a 21-year-old female employee sexually during a video conference. The footage became viral on Monday, May 27.

The last round of voting for the general elections will take place in Punjab on June 1, 2024. On June 4th, the results will be made public.