Enforce Journalists Act properly: Scribes

HYDERABAD: "The wages earned by a large section of journalists in the country entitles them to benefits under a BPL card," said governor ESL Narasimhan.
Speaking at the seventh plenary session of the Indian Journalists' Union on Sunday, he called for proper implementation of the Working Journalists' Act for providing better benefits to scribes. Calling media an important sphere of democracy, the governor stressed on importance of 'positive' reporting. "Media should not just criticise the state machinery. Those who do a commendable job should also be highlighted," said Narasimhan. Equating media as a service rather than a profession, Narasimhan reiterated the need for bringing back credibility in reporting and avoiding sensationalising news. "Better healthcare, wages and job security is something all professionals in this field deserve and I will try in my capacity to ensure it is followed," said the governor.Noted journalist K Sreenivas Reddy highlighted the need for enforcing the Working Journalists' Act at the state level and the need to end the uncertainty accompanying contract employment a practice common in media organisations.