Bhubaneswar, Dec 22: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday advised the Odisha government to bring a Journalist Protection Bill and ensure formal status and pension to scribes in the State.

"It Is Our Responsibility To Provide Safety, Facilities, And Rights To Journalists," said Pradhan.

The Union Minister suggested this while addressing the 53rd foundation day of the Odisha Union of Journalists (OUJ), an affiliated body of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ).

"The work of the Odisha Union of Journalists, which has always given importance to the interests, safety, and struggle of journalists, is commendable. The Constitution of our country has completed 75 glorious years. However, the Constitution was amended before the first elections were held in the country. Former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had amended the Constitution of which journalists were the biggest victims. Freedom of speech was amended to avoid criticism," pointed out the Union Minister.

He said elections are held every fifth year in our democratic country and elected people's representatives are priests of a democracy. They go to society with many ideas and plans. It is the responsibility of the journalists to show whether it is right or wrong, said Pradhan. "The 2024 election was a battle of Asmita for Odia people. Whether Odia people win or lose, was the main issue. Journalists played a key role in the change of government in Odisha,"

Pradhan said, calling upon the scribes to speak the truth, criticize, and be courageous. Highlighting glorious historical facts, natural richness, and literary excellence of Odisha, Pradhan urged the journalists to promote them so that they reach the global level.

Expressing happiness that Navy Day was celebrated in Odisha recently and Pravasi Bharat Sammilani will be held in the State for the first time, Pradhan said journalists would always play a vital role in promoting Odia heritage, culture, and tradition and helping the State develop rapidly.

"Media, the fourth pillar of democracy, will play a big role in making Odisha a leading region in the period between 2036 and 2047. The rights will be fulfilled only when one takes responsibility," the Union Minister contended.

On the occasion, Pradhan honoured young scribes with Journalist Awards.

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