"WRONG HEADLINES Speaking at a function on National Press Day, addressing scribes Chief Minister Parrikar said " I differ with you, but I will fight to the last for your right to differ with me. This sentence is inscribed deep in my heart". I did not see this very important statement headlined in the papers I read! He said there was negativity in news, and rightly said opinions and comments may be presented in the editorial or as analysis.The problem as we citizens and readers see it, is that there is a lot of denial of what is hapenning on the ground by the government as we see it and are experiencing it! For example except if rude or malicious, why cannot letters to the editor carry the disclaimer that the opinions expressed are purely the writers and desist from censoring to please either their owner, editor or the government! This is real freedom of speech and democracy and in fact should be welcome as feedback by all concerned and also does not cramp the writers style or take away the real issue headlined".
I had sent the above to all the english dailies about a month back and was surprised to find that not one of them carried it! However, I was pleasantly surprised to find it suddenly today in Gomantak Times! Sadly most the mainstream media ( including television) has jumped onto the ruling party bandwagon, and this watchdog of democracy is applauding the ruling establishment and censoring dissent! Rahul listed as "non Hindu" in visitor book at Somnath Temple is great news and headlines! Panchayats have been directed not to allow discussuin under "Any Other Points" thus defeating very aim of dissent, discussion and thus equitable development at grassroots! A Parliamentary committee has summoned the director and producers of the movie Padmavati, although there is an official Central screening body for the purpose. Soli Sorabjee and other eminent lawyers has termed this highly illegal, besides being most high handed. No such committee was called to discuss farmer's protests/suicides or vigilantism and other important matters? The other day I mentioned to a friend the fact "acche din" has prices of eggs,onion, tomatoes, fruits, vegetables going sky high out of my reach and someone nearby conspirationally warned me to be careful as people are listenning! Are people living in fear that we are turning into a survellience and police State, afraid to voice any opinion?
