DEO Samba media on ECI’s election coverage guidelines

Samba: A press meet was held Tuesday in the Deputy Commissioner’s Office Complex and chaired by District Election Officer (DEO) Rajesh Sharma. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Samba, Vinay Kumar also attended the meet. Media representatives from across the district, besides District Information Officer (DIO) Pranav Manhas and SVEEP Nodal Officer Ekshu Sharma were present at the meeting
The DEO stressed the indispensable role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy and a key factor for free, fair, and transparent elections. He reiterated the importance of responsible journalism, urging the media to follow the “General Guidelines for Media during Elections” to ensure balanced, apolitical, and fact-based reporting.
The DEO and SSP Vinay Kumar also discussed the need for maintaining law and order during the elections and requested the media’s support in fostering an environment of peace and impartiality.
A brief interaction session followed, where the media personnel had the opportunity to raise various issues related to election coverage and media conduct. Topics such as access to election-related information, ensuring timely dissemination of updates, and challenges faced by media houses during the election period were discussed.
The DEO assured the media of full cooperation and support from the administration to address these concerns and facilitate smooth coordination.
The DEO further encouraged media participation in the upcoming Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) events, emphasizing their role in raising voter awareness and encouraging higher voter turnout.
DEO also appreciate the media’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and their valuable contribution to the electoral process.