None should meddle in freedom of media: Speaker Lokeshore
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, January 02 2013 :
Reiterating that media is the fourth estate of a democratic republic and a nation can develop only when there is a free and fair media, Speaker of Manipur Legislative Assembly Th Lokeshore has categorically stated that no one should interfere with the freedom of media.
Speaking as Chief Guest of the 31st foundation day of the local daily, Kangleipakki Meira, which was held at Manipur Press Club, Majorkhul Imphal, Speaker Lokeshore said that people working in the field of media are dedicating their lives for the sake of the society and its development.
They are also helping the government by generating public opinions in various spheres and highlighting loopholes in the administration of the government for a better society.
So, instead of threatening mediapersons for some vested interests, they should be motivated and everyone should respect them for their dedications.
They are facing many hardships in trying to provide information to the people even in the remotest areas of the state.
He said that killing of journalist Dwijamani while on duty in the field was an unfortunate incident.
In order to prevent such incidents in future, the government is taking proactive role in conducting enquiry.
While recalling a journey to Singapore, the Speaker said that newspapers in Singapore carry developmental news on the front page and other crime news in the inner pages.
When enquired about the policy, an editor told him that everyone should feel fresh and rejuvenated in the morning while looking at the front page of the newspaper.
The Speaker expressed desire that similar policy should also be adopted by the newspapers in the state.
Because, Manipuri society has lost its bliss as everybody in the state are greeted with the news of crimes every morning.
Th Premchand of Poknapham was awarded Best Male Journalist on the occasion while K Samita of Sangai Express was awarded Best Female Journalist title.
Jeet Ningomba of ISTV won the Best Journalist (Electronics) Award.
Ch Biren and Gracy Leima were also honoured with Best Hawkers' Award.
Besides, senior journalists and hawkers were also honoured with gifts.
Chief Editor, Kangleipakki Meira Shamjai Wangkhemcha; Retired Joint Director IPR Balkrishna Sharma; Director of Agriculture B Shamu; Addl CE of CADA K Manoranjan and Retired Jt Dir (News), AIR Imphal BB Sharma also attended the function.