No Position Is Above Questioning, Journalism Must Hold the System Accountable: Rajendra Sorkhi

Hansi/Hisar: Hansi Press Club organised a Diwali get-together attended by Aam Aadmi Party's Hansi district president Rajendra Sorkhi as the chief guest. The programme began with a two-minute silence in tribute to late journalist OP Sharma, a resident of Hisar.

During the event, Sorkhi extended festive greetings to journalists and their families on the occasions of Diwali, Dhanteras, Bhai Dooj and Vishwakarma Puja. Press Club president Sandeep Saini welcomed the chief guest by presenting him with a bouquet.

Journalists must question those in positions of authority

Addressing the gathering, Sorkhi said genuine journalism requires reporters to express their views without fear, personal gain or external pressure. He emphasised that no political leader or government official should be considered beyond public scrutiny.

He said journalists have a responsibility to question the system impartially and take people's concerns to the attention of elected representatives and responsible officials. According to him, the media must function as a watchdog and raise public-interest issues without being influenced by any political party or ideology.

Media provides a voice to people struggling with everyday problems

Sorkhi said people often turn to the media when basic civic issues, including electricity, water supply, roads and sewerage, remain unresolved despite repeated efforts. Journalism, he added, serves as an important platform for highlighting the concerns of disadvantaged and vulnerable sections of society.

Referring to the growing influence of digital media and artificial intelligence, he said the pace of journalism had increased significantly. He also stressed the need for journalists to develop a better understanding of economic and budgetary matters, as international developments can affect local markets and the everyday lives of ordinary people.

Accountability needed in public services and development

Sorkhi said both the ruling establishment and the opposition should be held accountable for issues concerning education, healthcare, roads and basic infrastructure. He pointed to urban flooding after even brief spells of rain and failures in sewerage systems as examples of shortcomings that require greater transparency and accountability.

He urged citizens to question political leaders about their performance and oppose corruption in development projects. He also extended his best wishes to emerging journalists beginning their careers.

Journalists and club members attend the celebration

The programme was conducted by Rajeev Bansal. Ajay Saini and Jagdish Saini welcomed Sorkhi through their addresses, while Mukesh Mahi honoured him by sharing an inspirational anecdote.

Senior journalists Pankaj Nagpal, Brahm Swaroop Vimal, Vinod Gagwani, Pradeep Duhan, Anurag Singh, Keshav Dhamija, Sanchit Malik, Raj Vimal, Rahul Rajput, Dinkar Gawdi, Prateek Kumar, Mahabir Soni, Shruti Dhamija, Ashwani Batra, Jatin, Sahil and Ram Niwas were among those present.