Agartala 1st November, 2024: In a landmark event for Tripura’s media community, Chief Minister Professor Dr. Manik Saha held a special discussion session with Indigenous journalists from across the state. Organized by the Khumulwng Press Club on Friday, this meeting marked the first time in Tripura’s history that a Chief Minister engaged directly with Indigenous journalists. The session, held at the State Guest House, was attended by various Indigenous journalists, editors-in-chief of media houses, and social media influencers, with Diwali greetings extended by the Chief Minister.
The event began with a warm welcome for the Chief Minister by Khumulwng Press Club President Anshumoy Debbarma and Secretary Ranjit Debbarma, who honored him with a traditional risha and a bouquet. Notable social worker Dr. Bipin Debbarma was also present. During the event, Kamal Jamatia from Aguli TV and web portal presented a photo frame to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha as a gesture of respect and appreciation. Female Indigenous journalists and other media organization representatives participated in the ceremony, exchanging Diwali greetings with the Chief Minister.
During the meeting, Indigenous journalists voiced key challenges they face, including limited access to government schemes and specific demands aimed at improving media support. Six senior Indigenous journalists actively participated, raising issues such as the recent advisory committee formation under the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, which did not include any Indigenous journalists among its 33 members. Khumulwng Press Club’s Secretary Ranjit Debbarma appealed to the Chief Minister for a review of this matter and requested a media center for state media houses along with government-provided accommodation for journalists in Agartala.
Expressing appreciation for the current administration’s support, Ranjit Debbarma stated, “Under the present government, journalists are working more securely and freely, which has encouraged new Indigenous journalists to join the profession.” He highlighted that, compared to the previous government, the current administration has expanded press freedom for Indigenous communities, boosting confidence among young journalists.
Responding to the journalists’ concerns, Chief Minister Manik Saha remarked, “There was a time when freedom was nearly absent here. Divisions between communities disrupted the state’s peace. However, after the government changed, peace, freedom, and the safety of journalists returned. Our goal is to build ‘Ek Tripura, Shreshtha Tripura’ (One Tripura, Best Tripura), which cannot be achieved without the support of Indigenous journalists. Your demands are timely, and the government will consider them carefully.”
Referring specifically to the advisory committee under the Department of Information and Cultural Affairs, the Chief Minister assured that the committee would address the matter in its first meeting and consider expanding its members to include Indigenous journalists if necessary. He pledged to prioritize the demands of Indigenous journalists and work toward prompt solutions.
The session concluded with a photo opportunity where Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha joined Indigenous journalists, marking a milestone event reflecting the government’s commitment to press freedom and inclusivity for Tripura’s Indigenous communities.
