INLD urges Centre to resolve UNI controversy

Chandigarh, Sep 23 (UNI) Indian National Lok Dal General Secretary and MP Ajay Chautala today urged the Centre to take prompt steps to stop the proposed acquisition of the premier news agency, United News of India, by a private media house.

Expressing grave concern over the reported ''takeover'' attempt Mr Chautala said the move can be seen as an attempt to destroy the neutral and independent character of the agency, which has a nationwide reach.

''This is akin to stangulating democracy itself, as independent media is considered its fourth pillar,'' Mr Chautala added.

''The UNI is like a lifeline to a number of small and medium publications, specially in vernacular and Urdu languages and its independent character must be maintained,'' he said.

The acquisition by any one entity was bound to interfere with the basic structure and ideals of the agency and could even have serious ramifications on national interests, he warned.

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