Keshav Prasad Maurya addresses National Union of Journalists conference in Agra

Keshav Prasad Maurya, Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has said that media impartiality is essential for a strong democracy, describing journalism as the “fourth pillar” of democracy.

He was addressing the opening session of the second day of the two-day national journalists’ conference and executive committee meeting of the National Union of Journalists (India) in Agra on Sunday.

Maurya said journalism in the current era has changed significantly, with a new generation entering the field through mobile platforms. He added that many individuals were pursuing “agendas” rather than practicing genuine journalism and cautioned against such trends.

He also expressed concern that several media organisations are now controlled by corporate houses, which he said has led to restrictions on journalistic independence. Despite this, he added that journalism in India continues to move in a positive direction, and the government remains committed to supporting journalists’ welfare and strengthening the media sector.

Maurya said concerns raised by Ras Bihari, the National President of the National Union of Journalists (India), regarding fake journalists and bogus organisations would be taken seriously and addressed. He added that the demands of journalists would be resolved, and said the government stands with the media fraternity.

NUJI National President Ras Bihari, who chaired the session, said there were discussions about an “undeclared emergency” and added that restrictions on the media were becoming more visible than before. He said journalists’ concerns were not being adequately addressed and called for action against fake journalists and organisations.

NUJI National General Secretary Pradeep Tiwari briefed participants on the organisation’s activities. National Organising Secretary Pramod Goswami and Uttar Pradesh NUJI President Surendra Dubey provided details of the conference. Representatives from various states, including Rajasthan, Bihar, Delhi and Uttarakhand, also shared updates on their respective state-level activities.