Freedom of expression should benefit the general public: Azo

Correspondent
KOHIMA, SEPTEMBER 21

NAGALAND Minister for Roads & Bridges Kuzholuzo Azo Nienu stressed the need for the media houses in the State to use the “Freedom of Expression” in line with the democratic ideals and values and more importantly for the larger interest of the general public.Speaking as the chief guest of the one-day media seminar organised by Kohima Press Club (KPC) here this morning, Azo said “the danger comes when the constitutionally guaranteed Freedom of Expression is being misused”.
Therefore, he called upon the media professionals to exercise their wisdom while discharging their duties in the name of “Freedom of Expression” and added that as the media personnel are the watchdog of the society their role should be based on the overall benefits of the citizens of the society.
“The media’s credibility as a democratic institution is enhanced if they are accountable to the public and if they ensure that ethical and professional standards are upheld,” he said. “A sensational and trigger-happy press does not contribute to intelligent discussion and debate and soon poses public support,” he said while opining that the press associations can play a role not just in defending journalists but also in raising ethical standards.
Maintaining that no government can function effectively if the functioning of the media is not effective, he said media should adopt pro-active role and give emphasis on the activities of the government while highlighting the issues concerning the state and the people.
Resource person, Limawati Ao, joint director DIPR, in his presentation on “the impact of social media on our life-style/society” said that “social networking has proved an effective medium for exchanging opinions and raising awareness”.
He said there is criticism of social media about its exclusiveness, issues with trustworthiness and reliability of information presented, concentration, ownership of media content, and the meaning of interactions created by social media. However, it is also argued that social media has positive effects such as allowing the democratization of the internet while also allowing individuals to advertise themselves and form friendships, he said. Most people associate social media with positive outcomes, yet this is not always the case, he added.
Veteran journalist and author Charles Chasie dwelled on the “role of print media in the midst of media invasion”. He said the role of media in the first place is to provide adequate, accurate and objective information to the best of their ability.
“Unless this is done, we will be presenting a lop-sided, even partisan, perspective to the readers and actually doing a disservice to them and society.
“We do make quite a fuss when it comes to freedom of the press and at the first sign of any attempt to trample upon our rights, we shout from the top of our voices,” he said, adding that rights are usually accompanied by duties and responsibilities.
There is a need for the media to be cautious about the direction it points for society to take, he said adding that this is where media must always endeavour to build an ethical and just world starting with how they perform and taking full responsibility for their actions.
In the circumstances, self-censorship is the best and must be practices by all media men and women, he said. He also expressed that media persons are in a position to become the greatest bridge builders in society.
Chaired by KPC general secretary Vishü Rita Krocha, the seminar commenced with Solomon Sha saying the invocation while KPC president Kopelo Krome delivered the welcome address and Oken Jeet Sandham gave a brief concept of the workshop while KPC advisor H Chishi tendered the vote of thanks.