NEW DELHI: Expressing shock over reports of the recent 'bashing' of Northeast Television (NeTV) journalist, Afrida Hussain in Guwahati, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has demanded an immediate investigation into 'this violent attack'.

According to an IFJ affiliate, the Indian Journalists' Union (IJU), Hussain was physically assaulted by security of the Guwahati Medical College Hospital on 31 March, when she attempted to interview a group of hospitalised women. She was allegedly dragged, kicked and punched mercilessly and is now undergoing treatment at the International Hospital, Guwahati.

"This is appalling treatment of a female journalist, IFJ President Christopher Warren said in a statement. The IFJ represents over 500,000 journalists in more than 115 countries The women Hussain was trying to meet were reportedly wives of missing United Liberation Front of Asom (Ulfa) militants, the IJU said. The wives have reportedly been fasting in protest against the Assam Legislative Assembly since 21 March, demanding information on the whereabouts of their husbands who were arrested and reportedly detained in Bhutan by the Royal Bhutan Army since December 2003.

Recently charged of 'attempt to commit suicide', the police admitted the women into hospital, with some reportedly in a critical condition.

"It is disgraceful that security guards can beat a female journalist into submission to suppress a story, and they must not be allowed to get away with this," Warren said.

"For her unnecessary sufferings, Hussain should be entitled to an apology and compensation by the Guwahati Medical College Hospital, as well as a full investigation to find those responsible for her attacks," he said.