Bhubaneswar: Independent and impartial media is very much necessary for strengthening democracy in a country, opined former Chief Justice of India (CJI), Justice Gopal Ballav Patnaik, on Sunday.

The former CJI was speaking at an event marking the 42^nd anniversary of Sambad and 17^th anniversary of Kanak News.  

According to Justice Patnaik, media has a major role in shaping public opinion in a democratic country like India. Newspapers and TV channels are supposed to make people aware of social, political and economic issues, he said.

“Awareness among people and voters on various issues pertaining to the society is extremely important for the survival of democracy. So, media, which is considered as the fourth estate of the democracy, should make people aware of various issues and help create responsible citizens,” said the former CJI.

Justice Patnaik further stated that media should work as a bridge between the common people and the government. “Newspapers should highlight the issues and problems of the common people and press for their early solutions. Similarly, media should write reports on irregularities and corruption in various sectors,” he added.

The former CJI also advised the media persons not only publish reports on any incident or happening in the society but also write on their possible impacts. At the same time, he stated that media should not make any attempt to control or influence the public opinion in a particular way.

“Before publishing any news, the media persons should check its authenticity. Objectivity should be the first and foremost principle of media persons. Fake news can cause immense damage to the society. There should be a proper distinction between news and views. Independent and unbiased media is crucial for democracy,” said Justice Patnaik.

On the occasion, Justice Patnaik praised Odia Daily Sambad and Kanak News for bringing pressing issues to the fore. “I am happy that Sambad and Kanak News are raising people’s issues. The media house has won the trust of the common people in Odisha,” he said.

The former jurist also praised the Sambad Group for oraganising blood donation camps and other initiatives, including the Earth Again campaign.  

Eastern Media Limited (Sambad Group) Chairman-cum-Managing Director Soumya Ranjan Patnaik, Sambad and Kanak News Editor Tanaya Patnaik, and Eastern Media Limited Director Dr Monica Nayyar Patnaik were present at the event.