Journalists have a major role to play in initiating change, says Lad

Labour Minister emphasizes journalists' role in societal change, addressing press freedom, fake journalism, and social security for media professionals.

Labour Minister and Dharwad district in-charge Santosh Lad has said that journalists have a major role in initiating change and there are many journalists who work with commitment.

Inaugurating a Media Day and annual award presentation ceremony organised by Dharwad District Union of Working Journalists (DDUWJ) in Hubballi on Monday, Mr. Lad said that considering the developments in society, it is time for introspection in all sectors beginning with society itself.

Mr. Lad said that in the press freedom index of 180 nations, India stands 161st. Contamination has happened in almost all fields, including media. No one is in a position to advise others. But despite that being the situation, the only people who can give a message to society through their commitment are journalists, he said.

Responding to an appeal made by DDUWJ president Lochanesh Hugar, the Minister promised to look into the issue of providing social security benefits to journalists working on contract basis in different media houses.

On the issue of housing for journalists, he said that he will take it up with the Minister concerned and the Chief Minister.

Chairperson of Karnataka Media Academy Ayesha Khanum expressed concern over media schools getting closed and courses being stopped. He said that the academy will contemplate over the issue and try to find a solution in consultation with experts.

Emphasising the need for addressing the issue of fake journalism, Ms. Khanum said that it is sad that because of the actions of a few, the image of the whole media sector is getting tarnished and every other professional is taking liberty to attack media. “In order to address the issue, journalists need to unite and we ourselves should begin the work of ousting fake journalists,” she said.