National Press Day Celebration: Honoring Excellence in Journalism
New Delhi,(KCN):The Accredited Journalists Association, in collaboration with the Press Club of India, orchestrated a thought-provoking seminar on “Media Freedom in India.” Distinguished figures such as Siddharth Varadarajan (Founder Editor of “The Wire”), Ananth Nath (President of the Editors Guild of India), Gautam Lahiri (President of the Press Club of India), and Vijay Shankar Chaturvedi (President of the Accredited Journalists Association) graced the occasion.
During this event, three eminent journalists – Vivek Shukla, Lalit Vats, Ira Jha – along with accomplished photojournalist Kamaljeet Singh, were bestowed with the Excellence Award. Their unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and insightful reporting garnered well-deserved recognition.
Siddharth Varadarajan expressed concern over the prevailing climate of fear faced by journalists, emphasizing the need to address challenges to media freedom. He cited instances of senior journalists facing unwarranted charges, urging a united stand against oppression, transcending ideological differences.
Gautam Lahiri, PCI President, highlighted the club’s proactive response to attacks on press freedom. He discussed their efforts, including protests, memoranda to authorities, and the establishment of a legal cell to address such challenges.
Vivek Shukla, Lalit Vats, and Ira Jha each with a rich history in media, were acknowledged for their invaluable contributions. Shukla’s extensive experience, Vats’ fearless crime reporting, and Jha’s trailblazing role as the first woman Hindi journalist to lead desks at two national newspapers were lauded.
Kamaljeet Singh, a renowned photojournalist, was commended for his exceptional contributions to visual storytelling within the Times of India group.
The speakers emphasized the importance of journalists standing united against challenges to press freedom. Siddharth Varadarajan provided insights into governmental obstacles, advocating for a collaborative effort to counteract infringements on media rights.
The event, under the leadership of Vijay Shankar Chaturvedi and Kodwolle Channapa, proved a resounding success, bringing together a diverse gathering of journalists – both seasoned and emerging – to celebrate the spirit of journalistic excellence and address the pressing issues facing the media fraternity.