Role of journalists in crisis situation dissected at AMWJU day
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, September 16 2023:
All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) celebrated its 49th foundation day in a low-key manner at Manipur Press Club, here, on Saturday.
A year-long celebration programme as part of the 50th Golden Jubilee Foundation Day next year was also announced on the occasion.
Former AMWJU president Thounaojam Tarunkumar and AMWJU president Bijoy Kakchingtabam attended the event as chief guest and president respectively while AMWJU founder member Keisham Shyamkishore and Editors Guild of Manipur president Khogendra Khomdram were present as guests of honour.
Addressing the gathering of journalists from different media houses, Tarunkumar spoke on the role of journalists in any crisis and challenges they face in such situation.
He emphasised the need for working together to present a clearer picture of what is happening right now in the state and explore ways to restore peace as well as to prevent similar crisis in the future.
Tarunkumar also urged the journalists to be cautious in reporting and balance their reports to prevent any further division but to pave ways for reconciliation.
A judicial committee has been formed to investigate the crisis and media need to assist the committee by providing correct reports, he said.
He also mentioned about the conduct of 10 MLAs, who have challenged the integrity of Manipur and said that the privilege committee of the Manipur legislative assembly is the right body to deal with the MLAs and their conduct.
Keisham Shyamkishore narrated the history of AMWJU and how 11 journalists founded the union.
He also spoke on the challenges and issues faced by media and the union as well, while calling upon the media fraternity to be brave in reporting the truth and guide the society towards the right direction.
In his address, Bijoy Kakchingtabam urged the journalist fraternity to uphold to media ethics and work towards upholding the territorial integrity and identity of Manipur.
He also reiterated the strong condemnation of AMWJU and EGM to the Fact Finding report of Editors' Guild of India, which was prepared in a three-day visit, and termed the report as an attempt to create division among the media community of the state.
He announced different activities to be taken up during the yearlong Golden Jubilee celebration of the union, which include lectures, workshop and seminar among others.
He also expressed gratitude to the founders of the union, which now has more than 400 members.
A two-minute silence was also observed in memory of deceased members of the union.
Earlier, floral tributes were paid to the deceased members at the memorial pillar located inside the compound of Manipur Press Club.
Gifts and citations were also presented to founding members of AMWJU and family members of deceased founders.
An official website of the union was also launched during the function.