Indian journalists covering recent youth protests against Prime Minister Modi’s government have faced hostility and even physical assault. Reporter Dev Kotak from Times Now was beaten by protesters who accuse mainstream media of being pro-government, labelling them “lapdog media”. This incident, captured on mobile phones and widely shared, highlights a growing distrust between the Indian public and established news outlets. Journalists report being heckled and abused, with protesters claiming their voices are not being heard. The hostility stems from perceived bias in coverage, particularly following a police crackdown on protesters. This unrest reflects a broader decline in press freedom in India, slipping from 122nd to 157th in the Reporters Without Borders’ World Press Freedom Index since 2010. Concerns are rising over violence against journalists and increasing government influence on media ownership.