Vice-President addresses 80th Foundation Day of Organiser Weekly

Why in news

The Vice-President of India addressed the 80th Foundation Day celebrations of Organiser Weekly, highlighting the publication's role in democratic discourse and media freedom.

Exam relevance

GS2 · Polity, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, addressed the 80th Foundation Day celebrations of Organiser Weekly.
2. The event took place at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
3. The Vice-President lauded Organiser's eight-decade contribution to India's democratic discourse.
4. He recalled Organiser's steadfast stand and historic fight against censorship during the Emergency.
5. He stated that courageous journalism strengthens democracy and that Organiser's fight against censorship strengthened media freedom in independent India.
6. The Vice-President emphasized that democracies flourish when the press informs, questions, encourages informed public debate, respects facts, maintains credibility, and adheres to the highest professional standards.
7. He added that the freedom of the press is meaningful only when exercised with courage and responsibility.
8. He described Organiser's 80-year journey as one of "continuity, resilience and sustained commitment to public discourse".

Prelims pointers

• Organiser Weekly celebrated its 80th Foundation Day.
• The event was addressed by the Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan.
• The Vice-President highlighted the role of the press during the Emergency.
• The event took place at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.

Mains practice question

Discuss the multifaceted role of the press in strengthening democratic discourse and safeguarding media freedom, with particular reference to its responsibilities during times of national crisis. (150 words)

Static linkage

The event links to the constitutional provisions related to freedom of speech and expression (Article 19(1)(a)), the role of media as the fourth pillar of democracy, the historical context of the Emergency (1975-77) and its impact on civil liberties and press freedom, and the ongoing debate on responsible journalism and media ethics.

Significance

The Vice-President's address underscores the critical role of a free and responsible press in a democratic setup, particularly in fostering informed public debate and holding power accountable. His commendation of Organiser's historical role during the Emergency highlights the importance of media courage in safeguarding democratic values against censorship. The remarks also serve as a reminder of the need for media to uphold professional standards, credibility, and factual reporting for democracy to thrive.