AALO, Jul 25: Aalo West MLA Topin Ete on Saturday called upon journalists to uphold the highest standards of ethics and avoid publishing half-truths or misinformation, stating that responsible journalism is vital for safeguarding democracy.
Inaugurating the Aalo Press Club, Ete said biased or inaccurate reporting could undermine the credibility of the Legislature, Judiciary and Executive. "We want journalists who know what they are doing rather than spreading misinformation," he said.
The inaugural programme was attended by Arunachal Press Club (APC) president Amar Sangno, Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) president Dodum Yangfo, West Siang Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi, former Minister Kento Ete, and others.
Congratulating Aalo Press Club president Domin Ete and the newly formed club, Sangno urged media professionals to strictly follow the Press Council of India (PCI) guidelines and uphold ethical journalism. He said the media must have the courage to expose shortcomings in governance and report the truth without fear or favour 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 the APC, was established on October 4, 1982.
Deputy Commissioner Mindo Loyi assured support to the Aalo Press Club through untied funds, subject to government guidelines.
APUWJ president Dodum Yangfo urged journalists to discharge their responsibilities with sensitivity and professionalism, cautioning against passing judgments before facts are established. He also assured the union'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 at Ganga was inaugurated by Chief Minister Pema Khandu in 2022.
Aalo Press Club president Domin Ete and general secretary Minpe Pakam expressed gratitude to the APC and APUWJ for their support in establishing the press club.