AMN /
President Pranab Mukherjee has said that prestigious awards are public recognition of talent, merit and hard work and should be cherished and valued. Speaking at the National Press Day function in New Delhi Monday, Mr Mukherjee said, sensitive minds sometimes get disturbed by some incidents in society but expression of concern over such events should be balanced. He said, emotions should not come in the way of reason and disagreement should be expressed through discussion and debate. Mr Mukherjee urged citizens to have confidence in the values of the constitution.
The President said, the open-mindedness and appreciation of genuine criticism is one of the lovable traditions of India, which must be preserved and strengthened. Although the President did not refer to any particular incident, his comments assume significance in the backdrop of returning of awards by literatures and film personalities.
He said media has been the conscience keeper of the nation since ages and it must always be accountable to the nation. Mr Mukherjee urged media to act as a watchdog and give voice to the marginalised. The President also said challenges emerge from time to time in a democracy and these must be correctly addressed. He said, sensationalism should not be a substitute for objective, accurate and dispassionate reporting. He said, opinion is free but facts are sacred and therefore caution should be exercised in passing judgements.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Col Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said, government stands by freedom of media. He said, media, which has great power, must also exercise great responsibility. On the occasion, Mr Mukherjee also gave away National Awards for excellence in journalism.