Bhubaneswar: What’s common between Russia’s Dmitry Muratov and Maria Ressa of the Philippines who were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize this year? Both have been recognised for their unflinching journalism amidst rising authoritarianism in their respective countries.
Discussing along these lines, a colloquium on ‘Freedom of expression and peace’ was organised by the Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), Bhubaneswar chapter, and the Press Club of Odisha, Saturday. The seminar, wherein dignitaries from different media houses of the state participated, witnessed conversations on an assortment of topics such as government interference in media, sedition and abuse of authority.
Highlighting the works of Maria and Dmitry, who have been called representatives of all journalists, Amar Jyoti Mahapatra, Chairman of PRSI Bhubaneswar Chapter, said, “We have made an effort to further independent media. These two (Maria and Dmitry) have shown how the pillar of journalism can remain intact with undying courage and strength in the face of tyrannical misuse of power.”
Introducing an intriguing observation, Tathagata Satpathy, Editor, Orissa Post and Dharitri, said that the ‘Freedom of Expression’ is a very modern concept for India, where, in actuality, the sense of privacy is at stake. “Algorithms are now transforming our thought processes. Governments and laws keep on changing. While discussions on freedom of speech are important, it’s absolutely necessary to observe how our mindset is changing while compromising and adjusting with our privacy.”
Bringing in the judiciary’s observation on the same, Siddhant Mohanty, an advocate said, “Governments have tried to interfere with the press freedom earlier and continue to do so presently. However, the Supreme Court, which has a duty to uphold this freedom, must also ensure that the restrictions, if any, imposed by a law on the media must be reasonable and unbiased.”
It may be mentioned that India, which ranks 142 among 180 countries in World Press Index 2021, is placed along with countries like Brazil, Mexico and Russia. In its report, the Reporters Without Borders described India as a “bad” place for journalism and termed the country as one of the most dangerous nations for journalists trying to execute their jobs properly.
The event concluded with a question and answer session followed by the official vote of thanks. Among the other signatories, professionals of the PRSI also attended the event.
