Hyderabad: Telangana High Court has again extended the validity of existing journalist accreditation cards until September 15, 2026.
The court issued the direction on Tuesday while hearing petitions challenging GO 252 and its amended GO 103.
The Telangana Urdu Working Journalists’ Federation (TUWJF) and others challenged the government orders before the High Court. The petitions raised concerns over changes introduced in the journalist accreditation system.
The court’s latest direction provides further relief to journalists holding the old cards. They can continue using their existing cards until the next hearing.
Moreover, the extension prevents an immediate disruption to the professional duties of journalists. It also gives the court more time to consider the issues raised in the petitions.
The validity extension applies to the existing cards covered by the court’s direction. Therefore, journalists who hold the old cards can continue using them for their professional work until the revised date.
The petitions relate to changes introduced through GO 252 and its amended GO 103. The petitioners have placed their concerns before the High Court as the legal proceedings continue.
High Court keeps existing cards valid
Meanwhile, the court has fixed September 15, 2026, for the next hearing. The petitions and the government’s response are expected to come up for consideration on that date.
The latest direction means journalists will not face an immediate expiry of their existing cards. It also maintains continuity for media professionals while the court examines the challenges.
For now, the journalist accreditation cards covered by the order will remain valid until September 15. Any further change will depend on the High Court’s subsequent directions.
The case remains significant for journalists who rely on accreditation for their professional duties. The court’s extension provides temporary continuity while the petitions against GO 252 and GO 103 remain pending.
The TUWJF is among the petitioners challenging the changes before the High Court. The federation and other petitioners will continue their submissions as the proceedings move forward.
The government is also expected to present its position during the continuing proceedings. The next hearing on September 15 will provide the next update on the matter.
Until then, the existing arrangement remains in force under the High Court’s latest order. Journalists holding the old cards can therefore continue their professional activities without an immediate change to their accreditation status.
