Editorial
Government's 'yes' to free press welcome
It will help effective governance
We are heartened by the fact that the interim government has clarified its position against the backdrop of misgivings arising out of certain restrictions having been put on the media that it will not interfere with the free functioning of the press. We heave a sigh of relief along with the readers of newspapers at home and abroad. We commend the Chief Adviser to the Caretaker Government and the Information Adviser for the promptitude and sensitivity with which they have responded to the concerns of the press and taken a positive and enlightened stance on the issue of free flow of information in the country.That whatever the media had to say in defence of free press when confronted with a prospect of so-called restrictions sank in the mind of the caretaker government is an extremely good augury. There was no need for placing any 'fetters' on the press, especially when the change over to the state of emergency found broad support from the media as an inevitable development opening a window of opportunity. The fleeting injudicious step may have raised an apprehension, however, that there are elements who are not in sync with the Chief Adviser or the Adviser for Law. As part of the damage control exercise or heralding a consultative process, the government is to meet with media representatives on the issue soon. This is a good idea; for, there should be no communication gap between the interim government and the press, the latter catering to the thirst for information among the people. Independent press is a bridge between the government and the people. The freer the media better served is the government. The media for its part must not only be wedded to responsible journalism but also be seen to be performing as such. It has to scrupulously avoid any lack of objectivity. From our side, we must rise to the occasion refraining from sensationalism of any kind or from playing to the gallery. The freedom that we seek and hold so dear must also be protected from our own excesses.
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