Srinagar, May 3, 2025 – On World Press Freedom Day, celebrated annually on May 3, Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference leader, paid tribute to journalists for their courage in speaking truth to power. In a powerful statement shared on social media, Abdullah emphasised the critical role of a free press as the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy, urging actionable measures to protect it. His message resonates deeply in Jammu and Kashmir, a region where journalists often navigate complex security and political challenges.
“We honour the courage and commitment of journalists who speak truth to power. A free press is the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy — we must protect it, not just in words, but in action,” Abdullah stated, highlighting the need for tangible steps to safeguard media freedom. His remarks come at a time when press freedom remains a global concern, with organizations like UNESCO and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) advocating for safer working conditions for media professionals.
In Jammu and Kashmir, journalists have faced significant hurdles, including restrictions during the 2019 abrogation of Article 370 and ongoing security challenges. Abdullah’s call for action aligns with regional efforts to foster transparency, such as recent educational and entrepreneurial initiatives like JKEDI’s program at MIET College and academic successes in Anantnag and Srinagar. These stories reflect a broader push for progress and resilience, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on unity as a national strength.
Abdullah’s statement sparked widespread engagement on social media, with posts amplifying his message and hashtags like World Press Freedom Day and Free Press trending locally. Users praised his advocacy for journalists, noting the importance of a free media in holding authorities accountable, particularly in a region with a complex socio-political landscape. Some posts also referenced global press freedom rankings, such as India’s position in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, underscoring the need for continued vigilance.
World Press Freedom Day, established by the UN General Assembly in 1993, commemorates the Windhoek Declaration and promotes the fundamental principles of press freedom. This year’s theme, focusing on environmental journalism, highlights the media’s role in addressing global crises. Abdullah’s message aligns with this ethos, reinforcing the press’s responsibility to inform and educate without fear of reprisal.
As Jammu and Kashmir navigates its evolving political and social landscape, Abdullah’s advocacy for press freedom serves as a clarion call for protecting democratic institutions. His words inspire hope for a future where journalists can work freely, contributing to a more transparent and accountable society.
