Parliamentary Journalists Play Key Role in Connecting Citizens with Assembly Proceedings: CM Vishnu Deo Sai

Unparalleled contribution of parliamentary journalists in 25 years of Chhattisgarh’s democratic journey: Speaker Dr. Raman Singh

Raipur | Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on Saturday emphasized the critical role parliamentary journalists play in informing the public about the workings of the legislature. Speaking at a one-day workshop on “Parliamentary Reporting” held in the Assembly auditorium, he extended greetings on the silver jubilee of the formation of Chhattisgarh and its Legislative Assembly.

Highlighting the Assembly’s 25-year journey of strengthening democratic values, the Chief Minister noted that recent workshops for legislators had proven beneficial. With many newly elected MLAs in the House, he said it is their duty to raise public issues, while journalists act as a vital bridge between the Assembly and the people. “Through your rigorous reporting, the public learns how seriously their elected representatives are voicing their concerns,” he told media professionals present.

He praised the Assembly’s tradition of honoring outstanding journalists and remarked that such gestures boost morale and encourage excellence in parliamentary reporting. Expressing confidence in the workshop’s utility, CM Sai said it would help journalists better convey Assembly proceedings to citizens in an impactful manner.

Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Dr. Raman Singh, also addressed the gathering. He acknowledged the irreplaceable role journalists have played over the past 25 years of Chhattisgarh’s democratic evolution. “Parliamentary journalism is a highly sensitive responsibility. It must maintain the confidentiality, discipline, and dignity of the House while delivering accurate and unbiased information to the public,” he said.

Dr. Singh emphasized that journalists strengthen democracy when they report impartially, rising above party lines. He stressed the need for deep understanding of the parliamentary system to report effectively, adding that communicating Assembly proceedings in simple language is vital to reaching the masses. He also remembered the contributions of veteran and late journalists of Chhattisgarh who upheld the dignity of the Assembly through responsible journalism.

Leader of the Opposition Dr. Charandas Mahant likened the role of journalists to that of the mythological sage Narad, calling them vigilant carriers of democracy. He expressed hope that the workshop would provide a valuable learning experience, deepening understanding of parliamentary journalism. Recalling his own long parliamentary journey, he shared how interactions with journalists had been insightful and enriching. He commended journalists’ accuracy, alertness, and sensitivity in faithfully conveying Assembly business to the people.

The workshop was also attended by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Assembly Secretary Shri Dinesh Sharma, former IIMC Director-General Shri Sanjay Dwivedi, and a large number of journalists.