BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 4th November 2025: Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha today highlighted the indispensable role of the judiciary and the press in sustaining a vibrant democracy, urging those in power to exercise authority with responsibility and integrity to prevent public distress.
Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day media workshop organized by the Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) Department in collaboration with the Agartala Press Club, Dr. Saha addressed journalists from print, electronic, web, and photo media, emphasizing the need for accountability in governance.
“It is evident that the functioning of the judiciary and the press is vital to a responsible democracy,” Dr. Saha said. “Those who come to power must play their role responsibly so that people do not suffer under any circumstances.”
Reflecting on his longstanding association with the media, the Chief Minister recalled his early interactions with Agartala Press Club President Pranab Sarkar and highlighted the transformative power of journalism. He reiterated that Article 19(1) of the Constitution guarantees press freedom, which he described as a cornerstone of democracy, even if not formally recognized as one of its four pillars.
Dr. Saha also expressed concern over past attempts to suppress the press, citing the murders of two journalists in the state. “Despite limitations in jurisdiction, I have persistently pursued justice in these cases, driven by a personal conviction that delays must not become denials,” he said.
He lauded the media’s role as a watchdog, exposing corruption and ensuring transparency. “When individuals ascend to positions of authority, there is often a tendency toward imbalance. In such moments, the press plays a corrective role,” he noted.
Highlighting the state government’s commitment to transparency, Dr. Saha said he personally ensures that press clippings are shared with district officials every fortnight and holds regular virtual meetings with District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police.
However, he expressed concern over India’s ranking of 161 out of 180 countries in the 2023 Press Freedom Index, calling it a “troubling trend” that threatens democratic health. “Innovation and the free flow of information can only flourish when press freedom is protected,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s accountability to the people, Dr. Saha stated, “The people are the true sovereigns of society. If the government fails to perform its duties, point it out—we will listen.”
Agartala Press Club President Pranab Sarkar welcomed the renewed focus on media development under Dr. Saha’s leadership. “Since the change of government, we’ve seen a shift. Media workshops have started after CM Dr. Saha assumed charge,” he said.
Sarkar advocated for regular training sessions and suggested collaborations with institutions like IIMS to enhance journalistic standards. He also raised concerns about the misuse of social media, urging responsible behavior and stricter regulation. “Even prominent figures, including the Chief Minister, are being targeted. Malicious content cannot be allowed to flourish,” he warned.
He further emphasized the need to harness artificial intelligence to curb misinformation, stating, “Workshops should not be symbolic—they must translate into actionable outcomes.”
ICA Secretary Apurba Roy reiterated the government’s commitment to media welfare, describing the press as the fourth pillar of democracy. He noted that a capacity-building programme is underway to support media professionals.
Earlier, ICA Director Bimbisar Bhattacharjee welcomed participants and announced that 356 journalists had registered for the workshop, which features seven expert resource persons. The sessions will cover topics such as ethical journalism, artificial intelligence in media, and conflict reporting.
