New Delhi: Expressing concern over the continued neglect of journalists who serve as the fourth pillar of democracy, Indian Journalists Union (IJU) National Executive Member and TUWJ Delhi in-charge Avvari Bhaskar demanded the immediate resolution of their pending health and welfare issues. To press for these demands, the Telangana Union of Working Journalists (TUWJ H-143) launched a 'Postcard Campaign' in the national capital.
Speaking as the chief guest at the TUWJ Delhi Unit committee meeting held at Gurajada Hall in Telangana Bhavan on Wednesday, Bhaskar called upon all journalists to take their grievances directly to the Chief Minister through postcards. He highlighted that journalists operating out of New Delhi, far from their home state, work tirelessly round the clock braving extreme heat, rain, and severe pollution, making comprehensive health security an absolute necessity.
He demanded that the state government immediately issue health cards and allocate housing plots to all eligible journalists to ensure security for their families. Furthermore, he urged the government to expedite the implementation of pension facilities, honorariums, and the resolution of all other pending welfare issues. Bhaskar expressed deep anguish that despite bringing these issues to the government's attention for years, a complete solution remains elusive. He noted that the primary objective of the postcard campaign is to build pressure on the government.
He stated that this initiative is being carried out in response to the TUWJ State Committee's call for a united agitation to resolve journalists' issues statewide. Bhaskar warned that if the government fails to respond positively to their rightful demands, the union will intensify its protests in a phased manner across the state.
The event saw the participation of TUWJ (H-143) Delhi President Nagilla Venkat, General Secretary Meka Gopikrishna, Treasurer Konnoju Raju, State Committee members Rajashekhar Reddy and Ashok Reddy, Advisors Mukkamala Satish, Secretary Nagaraju, Srikar, and others.
