The country’s first and foremost journalists’ organisation, the Indian Federation of Working Journalists (IFWJ),has had a glorious history of struggles and achievements since its establishment on 28 October 1950.
Most of the journalists’ organisations active in the country today have, in one way or another, either originated from or drawn inspiration from the IFWJ. Driven by personal ambitions, several individuals have attempted from time to time to divide and weaken the organisation. Despite all such attempts, the IFWJ continues to stand strong and steadfast in its struggle to protect the demands, rights, dignity and self-respect of journalists.
This year, on 28 October, thousands of journalists associated with the organisation’s 22 state units will gather at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi to demand the enactment of a Journalists’ Protection Act.
The Journalists’ Protection Act is not the demand of any single organisation or a select group of journalists; it is essential for every journalist in the country. Therefore, it is the responsibility of every journalist to devote one day to this historic cause, register their presence and demonstrate the strength of journalistic unity.
After a long interval, journalists from across the country will assemble in such large numbers on a common platform in the national capital. Friends, let us not allow this opportunity to pass. Reach Delhi in maximum numbers and strengthen this movement.
If we do not unite and raise our voices today, journalists will be left to fight oppression, injustice and arbitrary actions alone in the years ahead.
Let us recognise the call of the hour and contribute to this great movement for journalists’ rights through our presence.
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