For a free and Independent media

On the occasion of our 27th anniversary that we celebrated yesterday, we must express our sincere gratitude to our readers, patrons, advertisers and well wishers who have, over these years given us tremendous support by placing their trust in us and giving us the courage to continue in our endeavour to engage in ethical journalism. Ultimately, our goal is to serve the people with a deep commitment to uphold the spirit of our Liberation War and its democratic ideals.

While we are blessed to have started our journey with the rebirth of democracy in our nation, we must admit that we have been confronted by various unforeseen challenges. One of the biggest challenges to journalism has been the growing intolerance towards dissenting views and the shrinking of space for civil society. The most obvious manifestation of this has been the way various laws have been introduced to apparently muzzle freedom of expression. The ICT Act and the draft Digital Security Act have left journalists anxious over how sincerely they will be able to practice their craft. For journalism's reason for existence is to expose, express and present the truth and nothing but the truth. If this basic premise is constantly being circumscribed, it will be the death of journalism and the demise of truth.

Technology too, while it has exponentially enhanced journalism in terms of the tools that are at hand, poses a challenge to journalism. With overwhelming popularity of social media, journalism often finds itself sidelined by sensational, often unsubstantiated news as well as outright untruths that pose as news. Thus online journalism has become more important and relevant than ever and needs to be nurtured and protected.

It is unfortunate that many governments today believe that development must come first, before any other consideration, even if it means compromising fundamental freedoms. But development also means strengthening all legal instruments and institutions that ensure fundamental rights and freedoms of the citizens. Thus a free media is essential to play its role as a watchdog holding the state and its machinery accountable to the people. For the government a free media is not a foe; rather it is its most powerful ally because it provides an authentic flow of information from the grassroots that no other source can provide. It is therefore in the interest of development, democracy and public interest that a free media must be allowed to flourish.

From us we can promise that we will continue to be a free and independent voice and pledge to serve our readers and the nation better.