New Delhi, In a recent seminar, prominent journalists underscored the crucial role of media professionals in maintaining press freedom and adhering to journalistic standards in India. The event, which brought together figures from both alternative and mainstream media, centered on the responsibilities and challenges faced by journalists, especially during election coverage.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the seminar, titled ‘Indian Media and Election Coverage,’ was organized by Cogito Media Foundation and held at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, chaired by the club’s president, Gautam Laheri. Participants discussed the necessity for cooperation and support across digital media platforms, highlighting the dynamic and often challenging landscape of reporting during election periods.
The Cogito Media Foundation, recently established to support collaboration among alternative media outlets, was featured prominently at the seminar. Among the distinguished speakers were Bhasha Singh from News Click, Aditya Menon of The Quint, and seasoned journalists Prashant Tandon and Maroof Raza. MX News Editor Shakeel Ahmed and Founder Editor of Nows Network, Ali Javed, also contributed to the dialogue.
The inaugural address by Shams Tabrez Qasmi, Chief Editor of Millat Times, stressed the importance of solidarity in addressing media challenges. He articulated the foundation’s aim to amplify alternative narratives in the media sphere. Ashraf Ali Bastavi, Founder Editor of Asia Times, in his closing remarks, reinforced the call for unity among digital media platforms to champion journalistic ethics and freedoms.
The program, led by Saifur Rehman, Chief Editor of Insaaf Times, highlighted the foundation’s initiative to incorporate 16 digital media organizations as its core members. These include Millat Times, Clarion India, and Maktoob Media, signifying a collective drive toward a resilient and diverse media environment.
The Cogito Media Foundation’s future endeavors, such as organizing a significant media conclave and broadening its network, demonstrate a commitment to upholding press freedom and reinforcing a cooperative media community in the country.