Governor stresses importance of media freedom, responsibility
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, January 07 2024:
While addressing the 49th Foundation Day celebration of Manipur Press Club, Governor Anusuiya Uikey stressed the crucial role of media in upholding democracy and promoting peace, harmony, and brotherhood while calling for upholding media freedom.
Speaking at the celebration on Saturday, Governor Anusuiya asserted that no authority should suppress or gag the media, emphasising its role as the fourth estate of democracy.
She highlighted media's responsibility m raising consciousness and fostering unity beyond caste, religion, and personal interests.
The Governor described the foundation day as an occasion for celebration and self-assessment, providing an opportunity for members to exchange ideas, reflect on past activities, and discuss future possibilities and challenges.
Commending the Manipur Press Club for promoting media literacy in society, she acknowledged the media's elevated status as the fourth pillar of democracy.
She noted that news from traditional media sources, such as print and electronic, is considered authentic, and emphasised the need for impartial and fearless reporting.
Anusuiya also underscored the importance of journalists exhibiting patience in times of crisis and presenting news objectively, to avoid sensationalism.
The Governor highlighted media's role in increasing societal awareness and called for its contribution to preserving the rich heritage and tradition of the country.
She urged the media to promote democracy, remind citizens of their duties, and exhibit sensitivity when reporting news related to women and children.
While acknowledging media's role during times of crisis in the state and praising balanced presentation of events, she commended Manipur's media persons for not succumbing to threats and pressures despite the challenges they face.
Recalling her early career and motivation from the media, she donated Rs 1 lakh for the development of Manipur Press Club.
During the event, Governor Anusuiya Uikey, along with dignitaries and media persons, laid wreaths at the Journalists' Memorial Pillar and laid the foundation stone of Manipur PressColony.
She also inaugurated the Media Resource Centre of Manipur Press Club.
In their addressed, MAHUD minister Yumnam Khemchand expressed gratitude to the media fraternity for their role in promoting peace and harmony in the state, and urged for continuous efforts in the future as well while AMWJU president Bijoy Kakchingtabam highlighted challenges faced by journalists.
He said Manipur Press Colony was conceived as a solution to address accommodation issues faced by journalists from remote areas and other states and expressed confidence that setting up of the Media Research Centre will help in dissemination of accurate information to the public.
The event was attended by Editors' Guild Manipur president Khogendra Khomdram, IPR director Dr Th Charanjeet, former office bearers of Manipur Press Club, and journalists.