Karnataka assembly jails 2 journalists for defamation

BENGALURU: For the first time in the history of Karnataka, the legislature passed a resolution seeking to put two journalists in jail and a fine of Rs 10,000, for allegedly making defamatory statements against some lawmakers, including the Speaker. The journalists are Ravi Belagere of 'Hi Bangalore' and Anil Raj of 'Yelahanka Voice' - both Kannada tabloids. The move came after complaints were filed against the journalists by a group of lawmakers cutting across party lines. Reacting to the decision, Amnesty International said that journalists should have the freedom to write critical articles and politicians must be able to tolerate criticism.