Underlining India’s rich history as a pluralistic and democratic nation, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar today stressed that the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) “does not deprive any Indian citizen of his or her citizenship.”
He underlined that recent steps like the CAA aim to provide relief to persecuted religious minorities in neighboring countries without infringing upon the rights of any existing citizens.
Addressing the gathering at the ‘NDTV India of the Year Awards 2023-2024’, Dhankhar expressed his pain over the failure of some sections to realize the soothing impact of steps like the CAA, guided by the constitutional values of secularism, equality, and justice.
“It is unfortunate that some failed to recognize the historical context and soothing impact from human rights perspectives to persecuted minorities in the neighborhood,” he added. Recognizing the media’s role as the fourth pillar of democracy and its influence over social discourse, the Vice President stressed the need for an independent and objective media. “Media should be an agent to convey the right perspectives to understand India rather than be a prey to orchestrated narratives seeking to taint and tarnish our image,” he said.
Touching upon media credibility and self-regulation, Dhankhar emphasized that media credibility “lies solely within its own control, by being objective and not getting involved in politics.” He added that the media would emerge as the nation’s conscience keeper if it takes care of its conscience.
Cautioning against the politicization of media, the VP reflected, “The media cannot be a registered or unrecognized political party,” cautioning that the media should take all precautions not to become a battleground for partisan politics.
Referring to the challenges of misinformation and fake news, Dhankhar underlined the media’s responsibility to be a watchdog and curb such misinformation. “An informed public is the spinal strength of democracy,” he added.
Further in his address, the VP appealed to all sections of industry to practice economic nationalism. He praised the work being done by young journalists in tier two and three cities, calling for handholding them.
Tracing the journey of the Indian economy from the ‘fragile five’ to the ‘big five,’ Dhankhar emphasized that “the national mood is one of hope and possibility.” He further underscored the unprecedented economic rise, exponential infrastructural growth, and technological penetration in the country. Acknowledging India’s constitutionally structured vibrant democracy with a robust justice system, Dhankhar noted, “Democratic values optimally blossom and flourish with equality before law and accountable and transparent governance.” Sanjay Pugalia, Editor-in-Chief of NDTV, Amitabh Kant, Amjad Ali Khan, awardees, and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
