Arunachal Gov stresses on joint initiative for devpt

Itanagar, May 7: Arunachal Pradesh Governor S K Singh has stressed the need for further development in the state and asserted that the role of media was also required in the process.

Addressing the Council of Ministers and the press at the Raj Bhawan here last evening, the Governor held introspective discussions on a wide-ranging issues saying that all sections of this underdeveloped state, including the scribes, should walk hand-in-hand for the greater interest of the poor and needy.

Speaking at his departure reception, Mr Singh said, ''I want to see a better health delivery system, a football field in every village and the organisation of art competitions to hone up the inherent talent of tribal children, among my numerous wishes, in the state.'' He referred to his two-week-long visit in the past to the insurgency-affected Tirap and Changlang districts to instill a sense of security among the people.

The Governor advocated the need to refrain from partisanism among people and make concerted efforts to accelerate the process of development.

The media has a greater role to play in educating the masses on various aspects of governance, while ''truthfully'' highlighting the grievances of people, he said.

Describing the press as the fourth pillar of democracy, Speaker Setong Sena said: ''An element of fear and insecurity has prevented them from free reporting. There is a need to create a secured environment for the media to play their part effectively.'' ''Press reports are respected by the people and the leaders alike,'' said Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu, adding distortion of facts should be avoided.

Parliamentary Affairs and Law Minister Tako Dabi explained how journalists had been intimidated, gagged and attacked by goons and gunmen in the past and admitted that they needed protection.

However, he stressed on the educative role of the press, while IPR Minister Lombo Tayeng assured all possible support and requested the scribes to express their frank opinions while following media ethics.

UNI