Safiqur Rahman: Press Club of India President Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty said she feels proud to introduce herself outside Assam as someone from the land of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, highlighting the enduring legacy of the saint-reformer who dared to move against the tide of his time (Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty).
Addressing a gathering as the chief guest at the journalism award ceremony organised by the All Assam Journalists’ Union (AAJU) in collaboration with the Bongaigaon District Journalists’ Union at Abhayapuri in Bongaigaon district on Monday, Pisharoty said that the essence of journalism lies in serving people and speaking truth to power.
“Journalism is meant to work for the people. If someone enters this profession only to earn money without serving society, such a person should step away from journalism,” she asserted.
She further emphasized that journalists are the voice of the public and not the mouthpiece of the government. “If we begin to act as spokespersons for the government instead of representing the people, that cannot be called journalism,” she remarked.
Referring to the rich cultural heritage of Assam, Pisharoty said the state is the land of legendary figures like Mulagabharu and Sati Joymoti. She expressed concern that while Assamese women are known for weaving dreams on traditional looms, many are today compelled to dance merely for a government incentive of Rs.1,250.
The Press Club of India President also noted that journalism in India is currently facing significant challenges. She mentioned that while serving as president of the Press Club of India, steps have been taken to form a legal cell with the assistance of legal experts to protect journalists. Discussions have also been initiated in Parliament regarding the formulation of a law for journalists. “The law for journalists should be drafted by journalists themselves, not by politicians,” she added.
The meeting was presided over by AAJU president Pankaj Kumar Nath, while AAJU general secretary Nakul Talukdar conducted the proceedings. Among the distinguished guests was Bhabendra Nath Deka, the Padadhikar of Srimanta Sankardev Sangha, who in his speech highlighted that responsible journalism can play a vital role in maintaining discipline and harmony in society.
The welcome address was delivered by reception committee working president Anukul Nath.
During the event, AAJU honoured four distinguished journalists from across Assam. Veteran journalist Naren Bora received the Prafulla Chandra Baruah Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award for Journalism. The Radhika Mohan Bhagawati Memorial Journalism Award was conferred on Nitumoni Saikia, editor in-chief of Pratidin Time. The Hari Barman Memorial Journalism Award was presented to Imran Hussain, executive editor of Prantik.
The Shaheed Journalist Manik Deori Journalism Award was announced for Adip Kumar Phukan, chief editor of DY365, though he could not attend the ceremony.
Accepting the award, Nitumoni Saikia paid tribute to late journalist Radhika Mohan Bhagawati, recalling his colourful career and towering personality. Saikia also stated that criticism of the ruling government does not stem from personal animosity but from the duty of journalism.
Responding to questions about why certain political leaders are not equally criticised, he said that figures like Gaurav Gogoi, Akhil Gogoi and Lurinjyoti Gogoi are not currently in positions of executive power. “If Gaurav Gogoi becomes Chief Minister tomorrow, our criticism of him will be no less than what we express today about Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma,” Saikia remarked.
On the occasion, a commemorative souvenir titled Prahari was released by retired professor Dr. Jagat Chandra Kalita.
Earlier in the day, the AAJU flag was hoisted by Pankaj Kr. Nath, while martyr’s tribute was offered by Nakul Talukdar. Floral tributes were paid to several departed journalists including Prafulla Chandra Baruah, Manik Deori, Hari Barman and Hemen Pathak. A lamp was also lit in honour of renowned Assamese artist Zubeen Garg.
The ceremony concluded with a strong message on the importance of ethical, people-centric journalism and the need to safeguard press freedom in challenging times.
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