Journalists Should Avoid Playing Dual Roles! Those Who Are Truly Journalists Must “Hold Their Pen Firmly.”
This is a profound and thoughtful message for all genuine and respected journalists, excluding the opportunists. The points I am about to raise highlight not only the values of journalism but also the responsibilities and ethics in public life.
I believe that any journalist, leader, or public figure must maintain a clear distinction between their personal opinions and their public roles. Especially in a profession like journalism, where impartiality and truthfulness are of paramount importance.
It is often difficult to separate the words shared by a Prime Minister, Chief Minister, or any public figure on their Facebook page or other platforms from their official role. Therefore, it becomes their responsibility to ensure that the ideas shared on public platforms are broad, consistent, and responsible.
As for personal ideology, everyone has the right to their beliefs. However, it is crucial to ensure that such beliefs are not used to promote hatred, violence, or insensitivity in any form.
I am a supporter of the Modi-Yogi ideology and a true adherent of Sanatan values. However, when a brutal and violent act was committed against actor Saif Ali Khan, I strongly believe that the culprits behind such inhumane actions should be given severe punishment. Nothing is above justice and humanity in India, although it is true that these values have been diluted to some extent.
Nevertheless, amidst such incidents, if some senior and genuine journalists celebrate or mock the attack on Saif Ali Khan on their Facebook pages, it will undoubtedly harm the foundation of journalism. We, as journalists, must continue to work with a neutral stance. At the very least, no violent attack on any human or animal should be publicly expressed as a matter of personal joy on platforms like Facebook or Instagram.
Therefore, I appeal to all genuine journalists to consider the phrase “hold your pen firmly” as a source of inspiration.
This should serve as a guiding principle for every journalist and writer. The power to bring about change in society lies in words, and it is our collective responsibility to use them responsibly.
Purpose of the Article
The attempt has been made to present this article as thoughtful and inspiring, effectively highlighting the values and responsibilities of journalism. It emphasizes clarity and neutrality, which should be the ethical ideal for every journalist.
Key Points
1. Avoiding Dual Roles:
Journalists must maintain a clear distinction between their personal beliefs and professional responsibilities. Impartiality and truthfulness are the core values of journalism, and maintaining them should be a priority.
2. Responsibility on Public Platforms:
The thoughts shared by public figures and journalists on social media have a far-reaching impact. Hence, their words should always be neutral and responsible.
3. Opposing Hatred and Violence:
Supporting or celebrating any violent incident is not only unethical but also undermines the dignity of journalism. Whether it is related to an actor like Saif Ali Khan or any other individual, such incidents should be condemned, and justice should be demanded.
4. The Power of the Pen:
The message “hold your pen firmly” is meant to inspire. We must use the power of the pen to bring positive change in society. This is the moral duty of every writer and journalist.
My Perspective
As a journalist, I have clarified my ideology while emphasizing that we are not only firm in our moral values but also remind others of the importance of neutrality and responsibility. This perspective helps in strengthening and maintaining the integrity of journalism.
This article serves as a guide not only for journalists but also for every individual in society who takes their role seriously and responsibly. People who are considered responsible can only be deemed significant when their efforts are commendable for the benefit of society.
®Shashi Bhushan Maithani “Paras”
Editor – Youth Icon Yi Media
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