Mangaluru: On Gandhi Jayanthi, retired Justice Nagmohan Das of the Karnataka High Court emphasized the crucial role of journalists in promoting constitutional awareness, citing Gandhi’s publications as a shining example.
Addressing the Indian Catholic Press Association’s (ICPA) 29th National Convention of Christian Journalists, Justice Das stressed that legal illiteracy among educated Indians is a significant issue, leading to most crimes committed by this demographic.
Justice Das highlighted alarming statistics: five crore pending cases across Indian courts, with the Supreme Court disposing of 70,000 cases annually.
He also expressed concern over the distortion of facts and spreading of falsehoods by those in power and the general public. “Everyone has the right to know true news,” he asserted.
Gandhi’s values of justice and truth were at the forefront of Justice Das’s message. He urged the audience to embody Gandhian principles in their daily lives, emphasizing non-violence as the only path to world peace.
A panel discussion followed, featuring experts Dr. Purushothama Bilimale, Dr. H.S. Anupama, and Fr. Cedric Prakash.
Moderated by Fr. Joshan Rodrigues, the session explored “Gandhian Journalism: Upholding Truth, Justice, and Non-Violence.”
Karnataka Assembly Speaker U.T. Khader emphasized the crucial role of the press as democracy’s watchdog, stressing its immense responsibility .
At an award ceremony hosted by the Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA), Khader noted that journalists must correct politicians when they err and distinguish between views and news.
Addressing the gathering, which included award winners, association members, delegates, and students from three city colleges, Khader encouraged students to participate in democratic forums to become effective politicians.
Three outstanding individuals were honoured during the event:
- Fr Louis Careno Award: Fr Antony Pancras, editor of The New Leader magazine, for journalistic excellence and commitment to Christian journalism.
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James Alberione Award: Filmmaker Shaison Ouseph for “The Face of the Faceless,” a film raising awareness on social issues.
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J Maurus Award: Author Vinayak Nirmal for “Vaidhavyam” (Widowhood), exploring life after losing a spouse.
Bishop Henry D’Souza of Bellary presented the citations, while Khader presented the awards.
ICPA Treasurer Fr Joe Eruppakkatt, SSP Provincial Fr Joby Mathew, and ICPA – EC member Rajesh Christian also spoke at the event.
A message from Tushar Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi’s great-grandson, was also read out by Fr Suresh Mathew.
As Justice Das reminded the audience, Gandhi believed non-violence is not a sign of weakness but a strength, and it’s the responsibility of journalists to spread this message.
