The Deputy President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today emphasized that a strong and vibrant democracy cannot survive without a free, frontier and fearless printing press. Proposing that India needs strong, independent and vibrant media to strengthen the roots of democracy, Shri Naidu warned of the deterioration of media standards. Asking for unbiased and purposeful reporting, ‘News should not be mixed with ideas’, he stressed.
Speaking at a rally at the Bangalore Press Club to mark the 50th anniversary of its founding, the Deputy President noted that a free and fair newspaper is aligned with the independent judiciary when it comes to enforcing constitutional law.
Noting that in the past, journalism was regarded as a profession where the news was sacred, Shri Naidu emphasized the fact that good journalism relies on the impartiality and authenticity of events and their honest transmission.
Many famous news editors were present
Referring to legendary media editors such as KhasaSubba Rau, Frank Moraes and Nikhil Chakravarty, the Vice President said they had never presented the news with their views and always respected LakshmanRekha among the news and opinions. He suggested that the media today should be inspired by the media ministers who played a key role in the liberation struggle and the Emergency Situations. Emphasizing that news should not be based on opinions, he advised the media to never compromise on facts and always present them without fear or favor.
Shri Naidu on rise of social media
Expressing concern about the dramatic decline in the standards of journalists in recent years, Shri Naidu said the recent increase in social media has severely tarnished water. “Today, we find that news is always mixed with ideas. So much so that sometimes one feels that there are no newspapers or television stations that give an accurate picture of certain events, ”he added. He suggested that Parliament and the government should address the issue of fraudulent issues on social media and come up with an effective and credible way to deal with fraudulent matters.
Drawing attention to biased media coverage and event-driven broadcasting, the Deputy President said journalists were doing their job badly because authenticity and integrity were the foundation of journalism.
Expressing his concern about the declining standards of public speaking, Shri Naidu wanted political parties to govern themselves by adopting a code of conduct for their legislature and community members. He advised community representatives to refrain from attacking their political opponents. He also called for the reinstatement of Anti-Defection Law to address any shortcomings.
Emphasizing that members should consult, consult and make sound decisions in the legislature, the Deputy President said the media should highlight constructive speeches in Parliament and the legislature instead of being distracted. He warned against sensationalism and improper attention to those who would disrupt Parliament and the Legislature.
Shri P.C. Mohan, Member of Parliament, Shri K. Sadashiv Shenoy, President, Bangalore Press Club, Shri H.V. Kiran, General Secretary, Bangalore Press Club, Shri Shyamprasad S, Vice-President, Bangalore Press Club, media experts and other dignitaries were present.
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