Bengaluru, Feb. 19 -- A state government limiting where journalists can interview political leaders inside the Vidhana Soudha has triggered criticism from the opposition parties, which on Wednesday accused the Congress administration of undermining press freedom and acting in an "authoritarian" manner.

The order, issued by the department of personnel and administrative reforms, instructs journalists to obtain comments from legislators and ministers only at a designated spot near the portico by the West Gate, also known as Kengal Gate. Media personnel have also been told not to follow the chief minister, deputy chief minister, ministers or lawmakers to other areas of the building for reactions.

In a letter addressed to the department of ...