Union Minister Anurag Thakur Condemns Attack on Media Freedom in West Bengal

GG News Bureau
Guwahati, 21st Feb. Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Anurag Singh Thakur, strongly denounced the assault on media freedom in West Bengal following the alleged detainment of a TV journalist by the state police while reporting on the distressing events in Sandeshkhali.

Expressing deep concern, Thakur labeled the incident as unfortunate, highlighting the obstructive measures taken against journalists striving to shed light on the plight of women in a state led by a female Chief Minister.

He remarked that such coercive actions against journalists are not unprecedented in West Bengal, suggesting a systemic suppression of free speech and journalistic integrity.

Characterizing the suppression of freedom of expression as a grave threat to democracy, Thakur criticized the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government for flouting constitutional principles and stifling dissent.

According to the Minister, the attempts by the West Bengal administration to silence the media represent a deliberate cover-up of the realities faced by women under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership. He condemned the alleged patronage extended to perpetrators of crimes against women, juxtaposed with the silencing of media voices critical of the government’s handling of such issues.

Thakur concluded by emphasizing the imperative need for upholding press freedom and ensuring accountability in governance, reaffirming the fundamental tenets of democracy.