Baramulla, November 5, 2024 –
In a Statement issued here,The Baramulla Working Journalist Association expresses deep concern over the exclusion of regional media outlets during the recent visit of Lt. Governor Shri Manoj Sinha to Baramulla. In a worrying development, local journalists were barred from covering the event, while national media were given priority access. This deliberate sidelining of regional press raises serious questions about the transparency and accessibility of information to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The visit, which involved a review of ongoing developmental projects and public welfare schemes, was of significant interest to the local population. The Lt. Governor’s interaction with officials to assess progress on various initiatives is crucial information for the people of Baramulla and surrounding areas. However, the lack of local media presence meant that these important updates were not communicated effectively to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Baramulla Working Journalist Association condemns this act of discrimination and highlights the pivotal role of regional media in ensuring that local voices and concerns are heard. National media, often catering to broader audiences, may not always provide the specific and detailed coverage that local communities require. By excluding regional journalists, the administration is limiting the dissemination of relevant information to the public, which undermines the democratic principle of an informed citizenry.
We call upon the authorities to rectify this imbalance and ensure that future events prioritize the inclusion of regional media. Local journalists play an essential role in reporting on issues that directly affect the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and their exclusion from such events is a disservice to the community.
The Baramulla Working Journalist Association urges the administration to adopt more inclusive media practices that respect the importance of local journalism. We stand united in our commitment to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and fair reporting for the benefit of the public.