Centre asks State govts to provide secuirty to scribes: Anurag Thakur
New Delhi, 21 December (HS): Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Singh Thakur criticized the Mamata Banerjee-led government in West Bengal for the persistent assaults on journalists in the state. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Thakur expressed concern over continuous reports of violent attacks on journalists and urged the West Bengal government to take immediate measures to create a secure environment for media professionals.
Thakur’s remarks came in response to a question posed by Trinamool MP Dola Sen, who was not present in the House during the reply. He highlighted instances of attacks on journalists during civic elections and other events, emphasizing the need for a safe atmosphere for reporters covering developmental activities.
The Minister underscored the commitment of the Central Government to protect every citizen, emphasizing that while the safety of journalists falls under the jurisdiction of state governments, the Home Ministry, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, issued an advisory in 2017 for comprehensive security arrangements for journalists. Thakur urged all state governments to ensure a fear-free environment for journalists.
Regarding a recent incident where a Trinamool Congress MP made derogatory remarks about Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Thakur expressed his disappointment, stating that such actions are embarrassing for the entire country, and the entire opposition should have issued an apology.
Impact on Journalists and Media Businesses: The Centre’s call for ensuring journalists’ safety is a crucial step in safeguarding press freedom and protecting media professionals. The initiative can positively impact journalists’ well-being, encouraging fearless reporting and coverage of events. For media businesses, a secure environment for their reporters means uninterrupted news coverage and a conducive atmosphere for journalistic activities. This move can contribute to fostering a robust media landscape, ensuring that the press can carry out its vital role in informing the public without facing threats or violence.
