SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government will formulate a new media policy within four months to strengthen accountability in the media sector while safeguarding the role of professional journalism, Minister Sakina Itoo said on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters, Itoo said the government had already informed the Legislative Assembly about its decision to introduce the policy, which is intended to address concerns over irresponsible reporting and the growing presence of individuals operating through social media platforms without adequate professional standards.
The minister emphasised that the media plays a crucial role in connecting the government with the public and cautioned against generalising criticism of the profession, noting that Jammu and Kashmir has many qualified, responsible and dedicated journalists.
She expressed concern over what she described as the rise of unprofessional practices on Facebook and other social media platforms, particularly where individuals make allegations or publish statements without regard for their impact on others.
Responding to a question concerning the Information Department in the Assembly, Itoo said the government had formally communicated its intention to introduce the policy and would complete the process within the stipulated four-month period.
She said criticism of the government and public representatives was an essential part of public discourse and should not be discouraged. However, she stressed that freedom of expression should not be used to justify unsubstantiated allegations or attacks on an individual’s dignity and reputation.
Itoo said constructive criticism was welcome and the government was prepared to accept it, but maintained that those responsible for damaging others’ reputations through irresponsible statements should be held accountable.
Reiterating the importance of professional journalism, she said the proposed framework would seek to promote greater discipline in the media landscape without overlooking the contribution of credible journalists to communication between the administration and the public.
On the expansion of higher education institutions, the minister also acknowledged concerns about the mushrooming of colleges without a corresponding expansion in the range of courses offered. She said the government would work to address the issue, adding that its immediate priority was to ensure colleges had proper buildings and adequate infrastructure.
