VP Hails Fearless Journalism at Goenka Awards
C.P. Radhakrishnan recalls Emergency-era blank editorial, calls for responsible media discourse
- C. P. Radhakrishnan addresses Ramnath Goenka Awards in Delhi
- Highlights legacy of Ramnath Goenka and press freedom during Emergency
- Urges debate and dissent to lead to national interest decisions
- Calls on media to shed colonial mindset and promote balanced narratives
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 28th March: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Friday stressed the importance of fearless and principled journalism while addressing the 20th edition of the Ramnath Goenka Excellence in Journalism Awards organised by The Indian Express Group in the national capital.
Highlighting the legacy of Ramnath Goenka, the Vice President said the awards celebrate not just professional excellence but also the enduring spirit of independent journalism rooted in courage and truth.
Recalling the period of the Emergency in India, he noted that Goenka demonstrated the “power of silence” by publishing a blank editorial, which emerged as a powerful symbol of resistance against censorship and a defence of press freedom.
Despite facing imprisonment of editors, power disruptions, financial pressure and harassment, Goenka remained steadfast in upholding democratic values, he added.
The Vice President also highlighted Goenka’s contributions during the Quit India Movement, when he chose to shut down his newspaper in protest against British censorship, and his role as a member of the Constituent Assembly.
Stressing the role of media in a democracy, Radhakrishnan said discussion, debate and dissent must ultimately lead to decision-making in the national interest, rather than disruption.
He further emphasised that media institutions should play a proactive role in shedding colonial mindsets and present both global and domestic developments through an Indian perspective rooted in civilisational values.
Calling for balanced reporting, the Vice President urged journalists to highlight stories of innovation, grassroots transformation and progress, alongside challenges.
He concluded by congratulating the award winners and commending the organisers for sustaining a tradition that recognises excellence and integrity in journalism.
