Harish Rawat roots for self-regulation of media

DEHRADUN: Laying emphasis on the need for self-regulation in media, Chief Minister Harish Rawat today said the fourth pillar of democracy could play a crucial role in the evolution of systems and institutions in a comparatively young state like Uttarakhand.

"We don't believe in state regulation of the media. The media has to regulate itself," Rawat said addressing a meeting of the national executive of Federation of PTI Employees' Unions here.

Describing Uttarakhand as a new state, he said the media should come up with suggestions keeping in mind the unique geographical, social and economic conditions of the Himalayan state so that it can forge ahead on the path of development.

He said the fourth pillar of democracy could indeed play a crucial role in the evolution of systems and institutions in a comparatively young state like Uttarakhand if it functioned in a responsible manner.

An interactive relationship between the state and the media is important for the development of the state.

"So far the only means of dialogue with the media is a press conference, we have to look for other forums also where this interaction can be made more meaningful," he said.

He regretted the fact that a media welfare fund of nearly Rs five crore was also not being spent properly in the state when he took over and said he had initiated efforts to ensure that the purpose with which the fund was created is served well.

Remembering his special affinity with members of the media since his initial years in politics, Rawat said he never flinched from taking up cudgels on their behalf through dharnas and demonstrations whenever the opportunity to do so do arose.

Addressing the meeting, General Secretary of Federation of PTI Employees' Unions M S Yadav thanked Rawat for always standing for the cause of journalists and also remembered his role as the Union Labour Minister in the implementation of the Majithia Wageboard recommendations for journalists and non-journalists.

Yadav also advised the Chief Minister to ensure that the Majithia wageboard awards are implemented properly in media houses based across Uttarakhand.