New Delhi, March 18, (Scoop News)- In the hustle and bustle of the coming elections, busy as all parties are finalizing their election manifestos, we place before you a minimum charter for a pluralistic, free and more independent media based on a consensus by our body and endorsed by various national bodies from time to time ,Delhi Union of Journalists ((DUJ) said in a statement issued to Press today.
DUJ in a statement said that taking in view the present day reality and increasing insecurity of the working journalists and press workers we place this minimum charter before you and hope it finds some mention in your manifesto for the forthcoming national election.
DUJ called for early Setting of a common Media Council for both print and electronic media.
Setting up of a Media Commission for both print, electronic media like the First and Second Press Commissions and to ensure implementation in view of sweeping changes since the onset of globalization – and the deplorable condition of journalist and non-journalist in the press – a few exceptions not withstanding.
Amending the Working Journalists Act to bring in the entire media under its orbit, in view of increasing unfair labour practices – including mass retrenchments .
Ending contract labour in the news paper industry both in News and Electronic broadcast media.
Putting responsible checks on cross media ownership.
Immediate steps to help the growth of national language news and feature agency through a National Newspaper and Feature Agencies Development Corporation
Implementing the Wage Board Recommendations as per historic supreme court ruling of February 7th, 2014.
Proper Insurance and Pension scheme for journalists & press workers.
Ensuring a one-year package to the premier national news agency United News of India to help sustain regular payment of salaries which are being delayed for months.
DUJ adds that this has been pending before the government for over five years.
They caution against both targeted media bashing as well as demanding a probe against reports of motivated attempts to ensure the ‘manufacturing of consent’ through one-sided poll forecasts .
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