AALO, 26 Jul: Aalo West MLA Topin Ete on Saturday urged journalists to uphold the ethics of journalism and avoid publishing half truths or misinformation, saying responsible reporting is essential to safeguard democracy.
After inaugurating the Aalo Press Club here in West Siang district, in the presence of Arunachal Press Club (APC) President Amar Sangno, Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) President Dodum Yangfo, Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi, former minister Kento Ete and others, Ete said that biased reporting could damage the reputation of the legislature, judiciary and executive.
“We want journalists who know what they are doing, rather than spreading misinformation,” he said.
Congratulating Aalo Press Club President Domin Ete, Sangno urged journalists to strictly adhere to the Press Council of India guidelines and maintain the highest standards of ethical journalism.
He said the media must have the courage to expose the shortcomings of the government and report the truth without fear or bias to earn public trust.
Sangno also recalled that the APUWJ was founded in 1981 by veteran journalists PB Dasgupta, AK Bhattacharjya and Prem Bahadur Rai, while the then Itanagar Press Club, now APC, was established on 4 October, 1982.
Deputy Commissioner Minto Loyi assured support to the Aalo Press Club from untied funds, subject to government guidelines.
Addressing the gathering, APUWJ President Dodum Yangfo said journalists should work with sensitivity and responsibility, cautioning against acting as judges before facts are established. He assured of the APUWJ’s continued support to the club.
The programme also highlighted the history of the APC, noting that its first office was inaugurated by former chief minister Gegong Apang in 1995, while the present APC building in Ganga was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pema Khandu in 2022.
Incumbent Aalo Press Club President Domin Ete and General Secretary Minpe Pakam appreciated the APUWJ and the APC for their contribution in establishing the Aalo Press Club.
