On account of the current COVID-19 pandemic crisis, over the last few days people across Goa have not been receiving their daily newspaper while some newspapers having restricted themselves to their e-paper edition. For many especially the Senior Citizens their breakfast is incomplete without a newspaper around.
Now that the experts have clearly ruled that newspapers do not spread COVID-19, it must be ensured that the publication and distribution of newspapers is restored. Even earlier this week Prime Minister Narendra Modi while praising the print media in creating awareness acknowledged its role in fighting Covid -19 pandemic and disseminating the right information even at the micro level. The current lock-down and curfew with Social distancing in place should be no reason for the newspapers not to be printed. Freedom of Press and the very sacred solemn Freedom of expression are so very fundamental to the very survival of any democracy. People’s fundamental right to speak and express their thoughts on issues that concern society can be carried forward through the newspapers. The Press is considered to be the watchdog of democracy and any epidemic should not hang like the proverbial sword of Damocles as a threat to the freedom of Press. In view of the current unfortunate crisis, let us hope the Government will ensure all logistic support required to the editorial staff, the printing press and the newspaper agents who look after the home delivery of the newspapers. Thomas Jefferson had said “When the press is free and every man able to read, all is safe” Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: [email protected] Or [email protected] You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires www.airesrodrigues.com
