MEDIATALKS with the Padma Shri awardee Mr. Alok Mehta

An interactive and enriching session #MEDIATALKS, was organized in the School of Mass Communication (SOMC) on the topic ' Role of Journalism in Democratic Society'. The resource person was the renowned Padma Shri awardee Mr. Alok Mehta, currently the Editorial Director of iTV Network (India News & Aaj Samaj Hindi daily). An Editor, Writer, T.V. Broadcaster, Political Commentator par excellence, Mr. Mehta was the Former President and Secretary General of Editors Guild of India, Former Chief Editor -Hindi Outlook, and Former Editor of Hindustan, Danik Bhaskar, Navbharat Times, Nai Duniya.    

The session began with a welcome address by Dr. Sushil Kumar Rai, Associate Dean, School of Mass Communication. The speaker proceeded to discuss the ideologies present at the time of Independence and how they affected the institution of the press. Mr. Mehta shared how the privilege to publish an editorial is used at times when press curbs are enforced. He further spoke about the responsibilities of journalists in a democratic society. He enlightened the attendees on how modern technology is rapidly changing realms of life. However, he felt that many aspects of society can’t be experienced online and that a journalist must explore the ground realities to arrive at the truth. Giving references of paid news, Mr. Mehta emphasized that enough honest people also exist, who will protect the democracy.   

The #MEDIATALKS Session then proceeded with an interesting Q&A session where students and guests freely asked many contemporary questions and discussed their ideas with the guest. It then concluded with a vote of thanks by the moderator Ms. K. Nungshithoibi Singha, Assistant Professor, SOMC. Overall, the webinar was a huge success with participation from media enthusiasts and students from all over India.