Newspapers entirely dependent on government support become its mouthpieces: CM Omar Abdullah

STC NEWS DESK
JAMMU, MARCH 21 (STC): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah while ruling out any “pick and choose” policy in the distribution of advertisements to newspapers in Jammu and Kashmir, said that the newspapers that are entirely dependent on government ads and revenue cannot effectively serve the purpose of journalism. “Such publications risk becoming government mouthpieces rather than independent news sources. A newspaper that merely publishes press notes and my photograph on the front page is not a newspaper; it is a mouthpiece,” he said.
The Chief Minister advised the newspapers to work towards self-reliance while confirming the government’s support in developing the media landscape.
He said that he has directed the information department to expedite the review of applications. “If any discrepancy is found in an application, the applicant should be contacted and given a chance to resolve the issue,” he said.
He warned against the spread of misinformation, emphasising that fake news will not be tolerated. He urged journalists to verify information before publication.
The Chief Minister requested media professionals to act responsibly and uphold journalistic integrity, assuring them that the government remains open to scrutiny and fair criticism. (STC)