The Dimapur Press Club (DPC) has expressed “deep concern by the increasing incidents of threats and harassment aimed at stifling Press Freedom.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the DPC reminded that the press, “often termed the ‘Fourth Estate,’ acts as a watchdog on behalf of the people. Consequently, any attempt to weaken it is an attack on a core pillar of our democracy. We must never normalize these attempts to silence and weaken the press.
It demands solidarity from every corner of society to defend this indispensable institution.”
Referring to the “recent verbal assault on a journalist, as reported across multiple media platforms,” the Club noted that such acts are “not an isolated incident” but “part of a disturbing and continuous pattern where politicians, elected representatives, and extra-constitutional entities in Nagaland have threatened and abused media professionals in the course of their duties.”
The statement stressed that “this culture of intimidation and hostility must end” and called for “a collective effort… to foster a safer, healthier environment where a Free Press can function without fear of reprisal for doing its job.”
The DPC further urged all journalists to “reaffirm their commitment to the core values of the profession and most importantly upholding professional integrity.” It underlined that “credibility is journalism’s asset, which among others, is built on the disciplines of verification, fairness and balanced presentation; and the transparent correction of error.”
“It is the objectivity and commitment to factual reporting that distinguishes journalism from propaganda,” the DPC asserted, adding that in an era when the Free Press is “under increasing attack, both from state as well as non-state actors, the principles of ethical journalism are more critical than ever.”
The Club also cautioned that journalists must “guard against the danger of becoming pawns in political intrigues or serving the agenda of powerful interests, inadvertently or otherwise. This requires continuous self-reflection and a resolve to resist all forms of pressure.”
Reiterating that “journalism must act as independent monitor of power,” the statement added that the press should not become “vessels for the powers that be to draw political mileage from.”
