CM Urges Media to Maintain Accountability Without Spreading Misinformation
CM to Media: Ensure Accountability, Avoid Fake News
JAMMU, Mar 20: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today assured the media that no journalist will face harassment for reporting the truth. He emphasized the media’s role in holding the government accountable but cautioned against the spread of misinformation, urging journalists to verify content before publication.
Speaking in the Legislative Assembly during discussions on the demands for grants of his departments, Omar, who also oversees the Information Department, stressed that the government welcomes media scrutiny. “The media should hold us accountable and highlight our shortcomings,” he stated.
Addressing concerns over alleged favoritism in government advertisement distribution, Omar assured a transparent approach. However, he remarked that newspapers solely dependent on government ads cannot be considered self-sustainable.
Expressing concern over the proliferation of newspapers, he criticized publications that merely print government press releases on front pages, asserting that such outlets do not qualify as newspapers.
Omar also warned against the dangers of fake news, citing a recent false report about liquor vends. “A fake news report regarding the allotment of new liquor vends was widely circulated without any verification. Even responsible newspapers and channels failed to confirm the facts before publishing. We had to issue a clarification,” he said.
On journalist accreditation, Omar announced the formation of a review committee to reconsider pending or rejected applications.
Regarding Press Clubs, he acknowledged the functional status of the Jammu Press Club but pointed out political interference in the Srinagar Press Club. “There should be one unified Press Club in Srinagar. Once the committee decides, the necessary structure will be provided,” he stated.
Omar also revealed that the government is formulating a New Media Policy to regulate emerging platforms, including social media, news portals, and websites. The policy aims to align with the evolving media landscape and meet the standards set by the Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP), Government of India.
