Guwahati: The Assam Women Journalists’ Forum (AWJF) has expressed serious concern over a recent remark made by the Chief Minister of Assam, which referenced a journalist’s religious identity during a press interaction.
In a statement issued by the AWJF, the forum emphasized that a journalist’s duty is to ask questions, while the decision to respond rests with the individual being questioned. However, the forum noted that in this particular instance, the journalist’s query was taken out of context, and the Chief Minister chose to highlight the journalist’s religious background without any apparent justification.
“This is deeply concerning,” the AWJF stated, urging all stakeholders and those in positions of power to refrain from making such remarks in the future. The forum stressed the importance of allowing journalists to perform their duties and responsibilities without fear or intimidation.
The AWJF also called on editors of news organizations across the state to stand by their journalists in the event they face attacks or undue criticism. The forum underscored the need for collective support within the media community to ensure that the freedom of the press is upheld.
