Jalandhar: The pressure on the media by both government and non-government actors is increasing at a worrying rate. This is curtailing freedom of expression, while the media faces significant challenges in fulfilling its role in an independent and impartial manner.
Media organizations and media personnel must collectively address these challenges. Only then will the media be able to pass on its legacy of impartial journalism to future generations and play a better role in protecting democracy in the country. The lack of refinement in the media's own work is also a matter of concern.
The media must maintain its overall good reputation and good image. It must refrain from all forms of social exploitation. This will ensure the continued trust of the people of the country.
These views were expressed by various journalists while addressing delegates at the Punjab Press Club's annual convention here today. Senior journalists Kuldeep Singh Bedi, Surinderpal, Prithipal Singh Madimegha, Gurmeet Singh, Sunil Rudhra, Bittu Oberoi, Rakesh Shantidutt, Geeta Verma, Jatinder Sharma, Mahavir Seth, Jasvir Singh Sandhu, Davinder Kumar, Paramjit Rangpuri, Jasbir Sodhi, Pushpinder Kaur, and Sunny Sahota were among those who addressed the gathering.
Earlier, Punjab Press Club President Mr. Satnam Singh Manak presented a report on the club's activities, detailing the renovations carried out by the Governing Council during the past three years, the seminars held on pressing issues facing the country and Punjab, particularly the challenges facing the media, and other educational and cultural activities held on the club premises.
While the delegates strongly commended the Governing Council for its good work, they also pointed out remaining shortcomings and weaknesses. Overall, the report was unanimously approved by the delegates. Mr. Mehar Malik performed the duties of stage secretary, and Senior Vice President Rajesh Thapa finally thanked everyone.
The presidium for this event included President Satnam Singh Manak, Senior Vice President Rajesh Thapa, Vice Presidents Mandeep Sharma, Tajinder Kaur Thind, and Pankaj Rai, Joint Secretary Rakesh Suri, Secretary Mehar Malik, and Treasurer Shiv Sharma.
It is noteworthy that the above-mentioned Governing Council of the Punjab Press Club, elected in 2022, has completed its three-year term, and today was its last day. To conduct new elections for the Press Club, a three-member committee consisting of Dr. Lakhwinder Singh Johal, Dr. Kamlesh Duggal, and S. Kuldeep Singh Bedi has been formed, which will initiate the new election process for the Press Club in the coming days.