Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Sunday, emphasised that the media has long been recognised as the fourth pillar of democracy, playing a crucial role as its vigilant watchdog.
While addressing the oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected executive of the Gorakhpur Journalists Press Club, the chief minister said, “By highlighting pressing issues and holding the other three pillars accountable, the media ensures that overlooked matters are brought to the forefront with accurate facts and linked to public concerns.”
He added, “Throughout history, the media’s role has evolved worldwide, adapting to changing times and societal needs. Gorakhpur serves as the focal point of eastern Uttar Pradesh, making the role of the Gorakhpur Journalists Press Club even more significant. The decisions of its newly-elected executive will influence the city and the surrounding districts and institutions. In light of this, the new leadership must remain sensitive to public concerns to ensure their work remains meaningful and impactful.”
Mayor Dr Manglesh Srivastava administered the oath to the newly-elected office-bearers during the event.
Chief Minister Yogi also presented election certificates to the newly-elected members and extended his congratulations.
He highlighted the media’s significant role in shaping the careers of many freedom fighters who contributed as journalists and played a pivotal role in India’s independence movement. He said, “Among them, Mahatma Gandhi was a key figure who inspired newspapers through his influential writings. Similarly, Lokmanya Tilak mobilised public consciousness by organising the Ganpati festival, while Lala Lajpat Rai and Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi used their sharp pen to bring about societal change.”
He further stated that when India’s democracy was threatened, the press fought with all its might to safeguard democratic values. “Even in a rapidly evolving world, the role and relevance of media remain irreplaceable. With the fast-paced advancements in technology, the media landscape is also transforming to ensure the accurate dissemination of information.”
“Today, the younger generation relies heavily on social media due to time constraints. However, the misuse of these platforms by certain individuals to spread negativity has increased the responsibility of media institutions. The media must uphold its core values and focus on delivering positive and factual content. This is not just crucial for democracy but also for the security and sovereignty of the nation,” he added.
Emphasising that dialogue is the foundation of good governance and democracy, the chief minister said, “Problems cannot be resolved by forcefully imposing one’s viewpoint, but meaningful discussions can lead to solutions. Conflicts arise whenever we step away from constructive dialogue; preventing such discord is essential.”
In this regard, the media is crucial in promoting healthy discourse, he remarked. The chief minister asserted that effective communication does not require gathering large crowds as just a few voices can be enough to amplify a message to millions. The media must foster informed discussions and ensure that the right message reaches society, he added.
The newly-elected president of the Gorakhpur Journalists Press Club emphasised that when a dedicated, inspiring and visionary leader earns recognition at both the societal and national levels, even the most eloquent words fall short in capturing the true essence of their stature. He added, “Similarly, the sentiments of the people are deeply connected with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, whose leadership has set a remarkable example for the entire nation in terms of good governance, strong law and order and rapid development.”
He further stated that journalists also share a special affinity with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who has emerged as a role model for leadership across the country. He added, “The chief minister often remarks that those who fail to adapt to changing times are inevitably left behind. Following this vision, Uttar Pradesh, under his leadership, has embraced progress and modernisation. Today, the state’s achievements and success stories are being discussed nationwide, solidifying its national reputation.”
Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh, MLC Dr Dharmendra Singh, MLA Vipin Singh, Rajesh Tripathi, Pradeep Shukla, Dr. Vimlesh Paswan, Mahendra Pal Singh, former mayor Anju Chaudhary, Dr Satya Pandey, Sitaram Jaiswal and editorial in-charges of prominent newspapers were also present during the oath-taking ceremony.
