New Delhi: Free movement of journalists in North Block housing the Home Ministry may well be a thing of the past if a proposal to restrict their access is accepted in the coming days.
The proposal, currently being processed, envisages confining the journalists to the room of the Director, Information and the media room, which is at present being used for official meetings and occasional briefings.
Besides fears that unscrupulous elements in the garb of journalists could gain access to sensitive information, the move is also prompted by certain officials expressing strong reservations over the media persons freely roaming about through the corridors of North Block.
"It affects the decorum of the office," said a top ranked official.
Ministry officials have proposed a Defence Ministry-type access for journalists wherein if they want to meet any senior official, they would have to seek prior appointment.
At present, journalists freely move around the office and meet officials, of course, if they agree.
As most journalists on the Home ministry beat have already made a hue and cry about the move, senior officials have assured them that not only would the media room be refurbished but also refreshments would be provided in the new set up.
However, the media persons continue to insist on free access. The Home Minister's office has expressed ignorance about the move.
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