Home Minister Nayani Narasimha Reddy on Sunday reiterated that the Telangana Government would take all measures for the welfare of journalists in the State.
Addressing the first general body meeting of Telangana State Electronic Media Journalist Union at Indira Priya Darshini auditorium here, the Home Minister said that Health Cards for all journalists would be issued soon. He said he would speak to the managements of media organisations over extending benefits like Provident Fund and ESI to all the journalists. He said action would be taken against the managements if they fail to comply with the orders of the State Government.
Earlier, Press Academy Chairman Allam Narayana had threatened to launch protest if the State Government fails to resolve the issues concerning journalist. Reacting to his threat, the Home Minister said that the journalist need not agitation as the Telangana Government would address all their issued on immediate basis.
Deputy Chief Minister Mohammed Mahmood Ali said that the State Government was fully aware of the issues concerning journalists and it would take appropriate steps to resolve them. Praising the journalists for the role they played in formation of Telangana State, he said that their issues would be raised during the Cabinet meeting, if required.
Addressing the meeting, Commercial Taxes minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav accused a section of media of defaming TRS Government. Warning of stern action against those who publishes or broadcast false news, he said that the State Government was willing to accept constructive criticism, but will not tolerate yellow journalism.
Earlier, Allam Narayana urged the Central and State Governments to frame guidelines for the electronic media. (INN)