CM Stresses Crucial Role of Judiciary and Media in Safeguarding Democracy
Agartala, Nov 4: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Tuesday underscored the indispensable role of the judiciary and the media in preserving the integrity of democracy, emphasizing that both institutions act as vital checks to prevent the misuse of power.
Inaugurating a three-day media workshop at the Agartala Press Club, the Chief Minister described the media as the “fourth pillar of democracy,” asserting that freedom of the press is fundamental to a healthy and transparent society. “Article 19(1) of the Indian Constitution clearly guarantees press freedom. Without it, the entire social fabric can be adversely affected,” he said.
Dr. Saha noted that both the judiciary and the media serve as crucial bridges between the government and the people, playing transformative roles in fostering social awareness and accountability. “In a democracy, the media functions as a watchdog. It exposes corruption, injustice, and abuse of power fearlessly. When any government deviates from its responsibilities, it is the media that brings it before the public,” he remarked.
Highlighting the increasing responsibilities of journalists in the modern era, the Chief Minister said, “Society expects a lot from journalists today. If a government fails to fulfill its duties, the media must have the courage to point that out.”
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to transparency and press freedom, Dr. Saha said that the state administration regularly takes action based on credible media reports. “Every fortnight, high-level review meetings are held to evaluate reports appearing in the press. District Magistrates and concerned officials are instructed to act promptly on relevant issues. This transparent monitoring mechanism has helped resolve many problems efficiently,” he stated.
He further assured that the state government will continue this system in the interest of public welfare. Referring to the past killings of two journalists in Tripura, Dr. Saha said that the government remains committed to ensuring speedy justice for the victims and that the culprits will not go unpunished.
Speaking at the event, Apurba Roy, Acting Secretary of the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department, reiterated the government’s dedication to safeguarding press freedom. He said that several initiatives have been undertaken for the welfare and professional development of journalists, adding that the workshop is part of these ongoing efforts.
Agartala Press Club President Pranab Sarkar lauded the annual organization of such media workshops and cautioned against the misuse of social media platforms to defame public figures, urging authorities to stay vigilant.
In his welcome address, ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee informed that more than 350 journalists and photojournalists from across the state are attending the workshop, where noted media professionals will conduct sessions on a range of topics.
Press Club Secretary Romakanta Dey delivered the vote of thanks. During the event, eminent journalists Anamitra Chatterjee and Soumitra Bijoy Bhattacharjee were felicitated for their contributions to the field.
The three-day workshop has been jointly organized by the Information and Cultural Affairs Department and the Agartala Press Club.
