NT Reporter
Panaji
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said that it is the right of journalists to write about the government’s mistakes, but, in doing so, they should also ensure that such reports do not tarnish the state’s image.
Sawant was speaking at the National Press Day function in Panaji on Monday.
“It is the duty of all citizens, including journalists, to maintain the image of the state and the
country,” he said.
Calling the media the fourth pillar of democracy, he stressed that journalists must maintain its dignity.
“It is important for journalists to bring out the truth before society. However, while writing news reports, journalists must ensure both sides of the issue are brought out. If you bring only one side then it can create problems. I have suffered because of such news,” said Sawant.
He said journalists are expected to fight for the truth and must verify facts before writing reports.
“Highlighting mistakes of the government is media’s right. I have never called up any reporter or the editor of the newspaper if something negative was published and will never do so,” said Sawant. He appreciated the media fraternity for encouraging women
journalists in the state.
“Our government has focused on women-led development and I am happy to see a large number of women journalists in
Goa,” he added.
The Chief Minister also spoke about schemes and initiatives undertaken by the government for the welfare of journalists, and appealed to media organisations to give suggestions for the registration of digital media in the state.
Secretary (Information and Publicity) S S Gill, IAS, Director of Information and Publicity Dipak Bandekar, and president of the Goa Union of Journalists Rajtilak Naik were present.
