Hyderabad: The Telangana Urdu Working Journalists’ Federation (TUWJF) complained of discrimination and deprivation of rights against Urdu journalists in the Telangana state.
Addressing a press conference, TUWJF President M.A. Majid highlighted that Urdu journalism plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and providing information to the Urdu-speaking population. However, he highlighted the alarming situation where Urdu journalists are subject to unfair classification solely based on their language. In particular, he drew attention to G.O.Ms.No.239 (Telangana Media Accreditation Rules 2016), which has perpetuated this discrimination and hindered the progress of Urdu journalists.
Majid emphasized the relentless efforts undertaken by the Federation to advocate for the rights and welfare of Urdu journalists across the state. Over the past three years, the Federation has continuously represented the grievances faced by Urdu journalists, urging the government to rectify the injustices caused by G.O.Ms.No.239. Unfortunately, the government’s response to these concerns has been inadequate, failing to address the urgent need for justice.
To intensify their efforts and bring the government’s attention to the pressing issues faced by Urdu journalists, the Federation organized a national conference on May 28, 2023. During this conference, 25 resolutions were approved, highlighting the demands and aspirations of Urdu journalists. These resolutions were subsequently submitted to the Office of the Chief Minister and the Commissioner of Information and Public Relations Department in Hyderabad.
Undeterred by the lack of progress, the Federation announced a “week of demands” scheduled to take place from July 10 to 17. This event aims to draw the government’s attention to the urgent issues faced by Urdu journalists and reinforce their demands. Throughout the week, the Federation plans to present a memorandum with ten key demands named after the Chief Minister. These memorandums will be submitted to various state and district-level representatives, including state ministers, members of the assembly and council, members of parliament, collectors, DPRO, and other elected officials.
The demands put forth by the Federation encompass a wide range of issues affecting Urdu journalists in Telangana. They include the revocation of G.O.Ms.No.239 and the formation of a committee to draft a contemporary order that addresses the current conditions and requirements. The Federation also insists on the restoration of accreditation cards for Urdu journalists at the Mandal level, representation of Urdu journalists in accreditation committees, implementation of a pension scheme, improved healthcare facilities, allocation of advertisement budgets, educational privileges, housing allotments, and the enactment of the Journalists Security Act.TUWJF General Secretary Syed Ghouse Mohiuddin, Vice Presidents Habeeb Ali Al Jeelani and M.A.K. Faisal and others were present. (INN)