Empowering Women Journalists: Highlights from the First Women Journalists’ Conclave in Guwahati
Inaugural Women Journalists’ Conclave in Guwahati
Guwahati, Dec 27: The Gauhati Press Club hosted its inaugural Women Journalists’ Conclave, named “Let’s Talk,” on Friday, marking a pivotal moment for women in journalism to address their professional hurdles, media ethics, and the importance of press freedom.
This day-long event, backed by the prominent Assamese magazine Nandini, took place at the GPC premises and attracted approximately 200 journalists from various parts of Assam.
The opening session featured Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty, the newly elected President of the Press Club of India, as the Chief Guest. She was accompanied on stage by Smitakshi B. Goswami, CMD of Pratidin Time, and veteran journalist Maini Mahanta.
During her address, Pisharoty elaborated on the current media landscape in India, emphasizing the crucial role of press freedom in a democratic society.
“As journalists, our responsibility is to inquire. Press freedom is vital for fulfilling that duty,” she stated, highlighting that without the ability to question authority, journalism risks losing its fundamental essence.
Pisharoty also expressed significant concerns regarding the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP), warning that certain aspects of the legislation could infringe upon journalists' rights and limit their access to vital information.
She informed attendees that the Press Club of India intends to collaborate with press clubs nationwide, including the Gauhati Press Club, to collectively resist any initiatives that threaten journalistic independence and the right to report.
In her remarks, Smitakshi B. Goswami hailed Pisharoty’s election as PCI President as a beacon of hope for the media community.
“The election of an independent journalist, unafraid to uphold her responsibilities, to such a prestigious position is the optimism journalism in India desperately needs,” she remarked, reaffirming her dedication to supporting honest and courageous journalism.
The conclave also included three panel discussions featuring distinguished women journalists from Assam, who shared their experiences and perspectives.
These sessions addressed the challenges women face in the media industry, including issues encountered by field reporters, television anchors, and desk professionals.
Participants openly discussed topics such as gender bias, safety issues, career advancement, and the necessity for enhanced institutional support for women journalists.
The event concluded with a unified call for solidarity among women journalists and a renewed commitment from media organizations to foster safer, more inclusive, and ethically robust newsrooms.
This initiative was widely regarded as timely, shedding light on the obstacles women journalists encounter and the pressing need to protect press freedom in the nation.