World Press Freedom Day observed : Importance of freedom of press stressed
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR
Imphal, May 03 2017:
The World Press Freedom Day 2017 was observed today at State Information Centre, DIPR, Palace Gate under the theme "Promoting the media's potential as a catalyser of peace and mutual understanding" .
The programme was organised by Editors' Guild Manipur.
IPR Commissioner Kangjam Radhakumar, Director IPR Meghachandra Kongbam, Editors' Guild Manipur secretary general Yumnam Rupachandra and Editors' Guild Manipur president Ahongshangbam Mobi Singh attended the function as presidium members.
Addressing the gathering, IPR Commissioner Radhakumar said the observance reminds the people about the importance of freedom of press.
The IPR Commissioner continued that media plays an important role in highlighting the grievances of the public before the Government.
He said the media has a big role to play in achieving sustainable development in the world by 2030 which was adopted by the UN in 2015.He said the media helps in conveying the various development programmes of the Government to the masses.
The IPR Director also spoke on the various grievances faced by the media while carrying out their duties.
Ahongshangbam Mobi Singh said that media in the country is not able to exercise the freedom of press freely.
AIR News Editor Dr Aribam Ibomcha Sharma said whether media brings peace or create war has become a major topic of debate in today's world.
EGM secretary general Rupachandra said, "Earlier, paid news was a major issue.
Today, the issue of fake news is fast becoming a major world-wide menace" .
He continued that this year the World Press Freedom Day is observed under three sub-themes which are justice for all as a prerequisite for freedom of expression and sustainable development, promoting the media's potential as a catalyser of peace and mutual understanding and freedom of expression and freedom of information to foster more inclusive societies.