New Delhi, Nov 20 : The Indian Newspaper Society (INS) today unequivocally condemned the attack on the premises of 'Karavali Ale', a newspaper published from Mangalore and Karwar, blaming inadequate security for the assault.

In a communique here, the society said though it was evident the newspaper apprehended a threat and had informed the Karnataka government, the latter had failed to provide adequate security resulting in the attack on the publication on November 17.

It demanded that the State Chief Minister intervene in the matter immediately and provide adequate security to the publication and prosecute those responsible for the attack.

Stating that the attack "was a direct consequence of editorial positions it had taken on several issues, INS President Hormusji N Cama said, "in a pluralistic society where freedom of Press is guaranteed by the Constitution, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that there are no impediments to the functioning of mass media. Attacks on the Press are as indefensible as inaction by authorities." UNI SD RSA RK1818