President Pranab Mukherjee has intervened twice in the recent past to comment on acts of intolerance in the country. However, on the occasion of National Press Freedom Day, in the backdrop of a debate initiated by civil society, notably by artists and writers who returned their awards to protest against the government’s silence, the President said disagreement should be expressed through debate and discussion without letting emotions overrun reason.
In the wake of several >prominent writers and artists returning their awards to protest against the rising intolerance in the country, and academics from universities around the world joining the protest, Mr.Mukherjee said that prestigious awards “are a public recognition of talent, merit and hard work, by peers and leaders in the profession” and that “such awards should be cherished and valued by those who receive them.”
The President observed, “Sensitive minds sometimes get disturbed by some incidents in society. But, expression of concern over such events should be balanced. Emotions should not overrun reason, and disagreement should be expressed through debate and discussion.”
“We must, as proud Indians, have confidence in the idea of India and the values and principles enshrined in our Constitution. India has always been able to self-correct whenever such a need has arisen,” he said.
Noting that the influence, credibility and quality of the Indian media was well recognized all over the world, the President said that it had grown in scale and reach over the years and the new media had brought about a convergence among traditional, audio-visual, digital and social media.
The role of the media as a powerful medium for shaping the ideas, aspirations and conduct of the people even in the remotest corners of the country entrusts it with the responsibility of being the watchdog and in giving voice to the marginalised.
The power of the media should be used to reset our moral compass and promote liberalism, humanism and decency in public life, Mr Mukherjee said.
