How Can Journalists Maintain Harmony and Credibility in Times of Misinformation? Insights from Tripura CM Saha
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Journalists' role in maintaining societal harmony is crucial.
- Accurate news dissemination is considered an art.
- Ethical journalism practices must be reinforced.
- Collaboration among media professionals is essential to combat misinformation.
- Continuous efforts are needed for the safety of journalists.
Agartala, Nov 16 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, emphasized on Sunday that upholding political, social, and cultural harmony is one of the primary roles of journalists, who act as a reflection of society.
While addressing an event at the Sukanta Academy auditorium to celebrate National Press Day, he mentioned that the art of delivering accurate news is vital, and though journalism is a profession, it should be approached with a profound sense of duty towards society.
This year's theme for National Press Day is “Protecting Press Integrity in the Face of Growing Misinformation”.
Chief Minister Saha, who also manages the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) portfolio, stressed the indispensable role of newspapers and journalists in fortifying democracy.
He asserted that the freedom of speech and expression is essential for the media, yet journalists must be vigilant and responsible in their reporting.
“As misinformation proliferates on social media, it is imperative for all parties to collaborate in addressing this issue. Journalists in Tripura possess comparable quality to those from other regions,” said CM Saha.
The Chief Minister encouraged experienced journalists to conduct monthly workshops aimed at enhancing the skills of young media professionals and promoting ethical journalism practices.
Referring to the tragic murders of two journalists in the region, CM Saha reiterated that persistent efforts are underway to deliver justice for them.
He also reaffirmed the government's dedication to ensuring the safety and dignity of journalists, highlighting that various committees have been established by the ICA Department to promote journalists' welfare, with their recommendations to be implemented progressively.
Several dignitaries were present at the state-level National Press Day event, including Agartala Press Club President Pranab Sarkar, Executive Editor Manas Pal, Editor Sanit Debroy, ICA Secretary Pradeep Kumar Chakraborty, and ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee.
During the celebration, two senior journalists from the state, Pranamay Saha and Anupam Bhattacharjee, were honored with shawls, mementos, and monetary rewards.