Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 16:
The 33rd foundation day of All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) was celebrated at Manipur Press Club here today along with felicitation of veteran journalists who have contributed their mite in formation of the Union in particular and development of journalism in Manipur in general.
Information Minister TN Haokip was chief guest of the function presided over by AMWJU president Bijoy Kakchingtabam.
PDA Chairman K Ranjit, MANITRON Chairman Bijoy Koijam, Manipur Pollution Control Board chairman N Biren and co-ordinator of South Asia International Federation of Journalist Lakshmi Murthi were also present on the occasion as guests of honour.
In his address, TN Haokip said the role of journalists in a conflict zone like Manipur is not just important but very crucial.
The importance of the journalist is all the more pertinent in view of the Look East Policy of the Government of India, as it is the media which can help the people in reaping the benefits of the policy.
K Ranjit expressed resentment over difference of opinions that usually crop up among the Manipuris in pursuit of any goal and opined that the same mindset seem to have been seeped down among the journalists community as well.
This is really very unfortunately, he said, adding that he got the impression that AMWJU and Editors Forum, Manipur do not go together and see eye to eye on various issues.
MANITRON Chairman Bijoy Koijam pointed out that media has a greater role in promoting communal harmony among various ethnic groups of people living in Manipur.
The efforts of the media in highlighting problems of the people living in interior areas with regard to road and communication, education and health is appreciable, he said, adding that media should remain alert to shortcomings of the Govt.However, he took serious note of frequent confrontation between the media and the Government in Manipur and said this is unfortunate and should not happen.
N Biren maintained that editors should be cautious and not rely on sensationalism in publishing reports in the interest of maintaining cordial relationship among all the communities of Manipur.
A badminton court constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 85,000 with funding from PDA was also inaugurated by the chief guest during the function today.