NAMSAI, Apr 25: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Saturday emphasised the need for responsible, ethical and legally aware journalism, stating that the profession carries immense public trust and responsibility.
Addressing the “Responsible Media Initiative 2026” workshop organised by the Arunachal Pradesh Union of Working Journalists (APUWJ) at the Multi-Purpose Cultural Hall here, Mein spoke on the theme “Responsible & Legal Aspects of Reporting.”
Describing journalism as a public trust, the Deputy CM said citizens rely on the media for accurate and credible information, making it imperative for journalists to uphold the highest standards of integrity.
Reflecting on his long public life, Mein noted the evolution of journalism in Arunachal Pradesh and recalled the dedication of reporters who braved difficult conditions to bring out impactful stories.
However, he cautioned that in recent years, the pressure to be first has often overtaken the duty to be accurate. “Responsible reporting begins with verifying facts before publication,” he said, adding that in the era of social media and instant information, the role of journalists in providing verified and contextual news has become even more crucial.
Highlighting the sensitivity of reporting in a diverse region like Arunachal Pradesh, Mein urged journalists to exercise caution and responsibility. He advised them to assess whether a report serves public interest or risks inflaming tensions, particularly in matters involving communities.
The Deputy Chief Minister also stressed the importance of legal awareness among journalists. He referred to key laws such as the Press and Registration of Periodicals Act, the Information Technology Act, the new criminal codes and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, noting that these have direct implications on journalistic work. He cautioned against legal pitfalls such as defamation, contempt of court, and reporting on cases involving minors or sub judice matters.
Encouraging media organisations to invest in legal literacy, he said a journalist who understands the law is better equipped to report effectively and responsibly. “Knowledge of the law strengthens press freedom rather than restricting it,” he added.
Mein also highlighted emerging challenges in the digital era, including misinformation, AI-generated content, deepfakes and paid news. He urged media houses to adopt clear editorial guidelines for fact-checking and the use of AI, and to clearly distinguish between news and opinion.
Reaffirming the State Government’s support for a free and critical press, he said constructive criticism strengthens governance. He called upon the media to act as a responsible partner in the State’s development journey and contribute towards building a “Viksit Arunachal.”
He also appreciated APUWJ for organising the initiative and fostering dialogue on responsible journalism.