Media Must Confine Itself To Honest Journalism Without Using It As A Tool To Expand Business Interests : CJI NV Ramana

Speaking at a public event on Tuesday, Chief Justice of India NV Ramana said that independent journalism is the backbone of the democracy and urged the media to confine itself to honest journalism.

"When a media house has other business interests, it becomes vulnerable to external pressures. Often, the business interests prevail over the spirit of independent journalism. As a result, democracy gets compromised",the CJI said.

"Independent journalism is the backbone of democracy. Journalists are the eyes and the ears of the people. It is the responsibility of media houses to present facts. Especially in the Indian social scenario, people still believe that whatever is printed is true. All I want to say is that the media must confine itself to honest journalism without using it as a tool to expand its influence and business interests.

He made these statements in a public speech delivered at the launch of the book titled "The Gita Vijnana Upanishad" authored by Sri Gulab Chand Kothari at New Delhi today. In the speech, the CJI lauded the publisher of the book Rajasthan Patrike Group for remaining true to its roots and not venturing into other business activities. It was in this context that the CJI spoke about the importance of media sticking to its core activitiy of journalism.

The CJI said that Bhagawad Gita shows the greatness of our country and added that the teachings of Gita transcend the boundaries of religion, time and age.

"Our religious books teach us about the essential virtues of human existence. They teach us the value of a benevolent heart, the spirit of service and respect and consideration for fellow human beings. It is extremely important to ensure that our children imbibe strong moral values", the CJI said.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla was also present at the event.