Shahina K.K, an esteemed Indian journalist, recently received the International Press Freedom Awards from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The awards ceremony, held in New York City and chaired by Meredith Kopit Levien, president and CEO of The New York Times Company, highlighted Shahina’s unwavering commitment to journalism despite encountering legal challenges and harassment.
Currently serving as a senior editor for Outlook magazine, Shahina, also known as Shahini Nafeesa, has devoted her career to shedding light on critical issues such as gender, human rights, and marginalized communities. Notably, she is the fourth Indian journalist to receive this recognition, having made significant contributions to OPEN magazine, Tehelka, and Asianet News. In 2011, she was honored with the Chameli Devi Jain Award for Outstanding Women Mediapersons. Additionally, Shahina actively participated in the 2014 ‘Kiss of Love’ movement against moral policing.
During her acceptance speech, Shahina emphasized her conscious effort to draw insight from her courtroom experiences. These encounters led her to meet individuals with unusual interactions with the legal system, resulting in a series of articles highlighting the challenges faced by marginalized populations in Karnataka, India. Seeking to comprehend legal abuse, she pursued and earned a law degree.
Shahina’s distinction lies in being one of the first Indian journalists to face charges under a stringent anti-terror law. Despite the ongoing trial since 2010, she persistently reports on exposing injustices and holding authorities accountable. The charges stem from her reporting on a controversial police investigation, where local government officials attempted to criminalize her work. As of June 2023, Shahina is out on bail, awaiting trial, facing the prospect of up to three years in prison and an additional fine if convicted.
Beyond the courtroom, Shahina, a Muslim by birth, has faced harassment from political groups in India. These groups sought to suppress her reporting on religious minorities and vulnerable caste groups. The International Press Freedom Award recognizes Shahina’s resilience in the face of adversity, honoring her dedication to the principles of free and unbiased journalism.
