Agartala, November 4: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha today emphasized the vital roles of the judiciary and the media in maintaining the integrity of a democratic system. Inaugurating a three-day media workshop at the Agartala Press Club, the Chief Minister said that these two pillars are essential to prevent the misuse of power.
He stated that the media is considered the fourth pillar of democracy, and Article 19(1) of the Indian Constitution clearly guarantees freedom of the press. “Without press freedom, the entire social structure is affected. Both the judiciary and the media play a key role in connecting people and driving social change,” he noted.
Highlighting the watchdog role of the media, Dr. Saha said, “In a democracy, the media serves as a watchdog. Whenever there is corruption or injustice, the media must bring it to light. If the government deviates from its responsibilities, the media has the duty to point it out.”
He further mentioned that the responsibility of journalists has increased significantly in the modern era, as society expects a lot from them. “If a government fails to fulfill its duties properly, it is the responsibility of the media to expose it,” he said.
Dr. Saha reaffirmed that the current state government strongly believes in press freedom and works with transparency. “The government regularly takes necessary action based on reports published in newspapers. Every fortnight, district magistrates and officials are instructed to review such reports and take appropriate measures. This transparent monitoring system has helped solve many issues effectively,” he added.
Referring to the killing of two journalists in Tripura in the past, the Chief Minister said the government is committed to ensuring justice and that the legal process is being pursued to punish the culprits.
Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department Secretary (in charge) Apurba Roy also addressed the event, saying that the government is committed to upholding press freedom and has undertaken several initiatives for journalists’ welfare and professional development.
Agartala Press Club President Pranab Sarkar, in his address, appreciated the regular organization of media workshops and cautioned against the misuse of social media by individuals who attempt to defame public figures.
In his welcome address, ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee informed that seven resource persons would conduct sessions during the three-day workshop, with over 350 journalists and photojournalists participating from different media houses.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Press Club Secretary Ramakanta Dey. Veteran journalists Anamitra Chatterjee and Soumitra Bijay Bhattacharjee were also felicitated on the occasion. The workshop is being organized by the ICA Department in collaboration with the Agartala Press Club.
