Over 28 years ago, on May 17, 1996, Assam lost a courageous journalist, Parag Kumar Das. Das, who began his journalism career in the 1980s, was known for his fearless reporting and commitment to the truth. He started as a columnist for 'Prantik' and other newspapers and later launched his own publications, 'Boodhbar' and 'Agaan'. In 1995, he became the Executive Editor at Asomiya Pratidin, a prominent Assamese daily.
Tragically, on the day of his death, Das was shot while on his way to pick up his son from school. His murder sent shockwaves through the journalism community and highlighted the risks faced by journalists in Assam. In memory of his legacy, the Parag Kumar Das Memorial Trust was established, which organizes an annual debate competition to promote free speech and journalism. This year, the trust has named Dr. Hiren Gohain as the recipient of the 2024 Parag Kumar Das Journalism Award, recognizing his contributions to the field.
Parag Kumar Das's death anniversary serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in Assam and the importance of upholding press freedom. His commitment to truth and fearless reporting continues to inspire journalists in the region to this day.
Meanwhile, in Kerala, another legendary journalist, BRP Bhaskar, was recently remembered for his remarkable seven-decade career dedicated to truth and justice. Bhaskar, known for his unwavering commitment to exposing societal and governmental misconduct, was commemorated at a web-meeting organized by the Vakkom Moulavi Memorial Research Centre (VMMRC).
During the meeting, writer MN Karassery highlighted Bhaskar's role as not just a journalist but also a philanthropist and democrat. He praised Bhaskar's fearlessness in exposing misconduct and prioritizing character over career. Sahitya Akademi President K. Satchidanandan commended Bhaskar as a beacon of integrity amidst contemporary political turmoil, recognizing his honesty, fearlessness, and compassion.
Senior journalist MG Radhakrishnan reflected on Bhaskar's significant contributions throughout his extensive media career and the irreplaceable loss for Kerala. Former JNU Professor AK Ramakrishnan acknowledged Bhaskar's unique role in Kerala's human rights struggles and his maintenance of a vibrant public sphere. Dilli Dally editor S. Gopalakrishnan emphasized Bhaskar's relevance in Kerala society, attributing it to his free-thinking spirit, unbounded by any ideology. A. Suhair, Chairman of the Vakkom Moulavi Foundation Trust, highlighted Bhaskar's humility and erudition.
BRP Bhaskar's illustrious career in journalism spanned over seven decades, during which he worked with prominent national media groups such as Deccan Herald and United News of India (UNI). He formally entered the media industry in 1952 and joined UNI in 1966, where he served as bureau chief in Jammu and Kashmir and Kolkata. Bhaskar's relentless advocacy for human rights and his involvement in various social movements have made a lasting impact on journalism and broader societal issues.
The legacies of Parag Kumar Das and BRP Bhaskar serve as a reminder of the courage and dedication of journalists in Assam and Kerala, respectively. Their commitment to truth, fearless reporting, and advocacy for human rights continue to inspire journalists and shape the field of journalism.
In Kashmir, the journalism community mourns the loss of veteran photo-journalist Nissar Ahmad, who passed away after a brief illness. Joint Director Information Kashmir Division, Mohammad Aslam, expressed his condolences and highlighted Ahmad's role in covering various aspects of Kashmir through his journalistic work. The Deputy Director Information (PR) Kashmir, Ahsan-Ul-Haq Chisti, praised Ahmad's photo-journalistic career as a testament to the power of visual storytelling. Employees of the Information Department Kashmir also expressed their condolences and prayed for eternal peace for Ahmad and strength for his family in this difficult time.
The passing of Nissar Ahmad reminds us of the contributions and sacrifices made by journalists in Kashmir. His work as a photo-journalist captured the essence of Kashmir and served as a powerful medium of storytelling.
[3259f57d] [621a84cb] [e7df6578]