Shillong, May 10: Meghalaya Information and Public Relations (IPR) Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the growing spread of misinformation and sensationalism in the age of social media poses a major challenge to responsible journalism, while asserting that Meghalaya continues to enjoy a free and independent press environment.
Speaking at a World Press Freedom Day programme on May 9 organised by the Shillong Press Club in collaboration with the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR), Rymbui said Meghalaya has long upheld freedom of expression and maintained a healthy relationship between the government and the media.
The event was attended by former Lok Sabha MP and Chairperson of the Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights Agatha Sangma, DIPR Director B.S. Sohliya, officials of the department, members of the Shillong Press Club, Meghalaya Editors and Publishers Association (MEPA), and the Tura Press Club.
Highlighting concerns over media restrictions in different parts of the world, Rymbui said Meghalaya remains fortunate to have a free press atmosphere. However, he noted that the role of journalists has become increasingly critical in the post-COVID era amid the rapid spread of misinformation on social media platforms.
Expressing concern over the declining emphasis on factual reporting, the minister said sensational headlines often receive more public attention than accurate news coverage.
He observed that many headlines fail to reflect the actual content of reports, contributing to confusion and misinformation.
Rymbui urged journalists, editors, publishers, and reporters to remain committed to truth and responsible journalism and work collectively to counter misinformation online.
Describing the media as the “fourth pillar” of society, he said factual reporting strengthens democracy and helps institutions deliver accurate information to the public.
Addressing the programme, DIPR Secretary and Director B.S. Sohliya stressed the importance of a free, independent, and responsible press in a democratic society. He said the media plays a key role in informing the public through newspapers, reels, snippets, and other forms of news content.
At the same time, Sohliya underlined the need for balanced reporting, stating that journalists must ensure all sides of a story are heard instead of presenting one-sided narratives for greater public attention or circulation.
He also said the government and media continue to work together on issues concerning journalists’ welfare, including pension schemes and medical reimbursement, adding that discussions with members of the press are being held regularly to address evolving concerns.
 Minister Lahkmen Rymbui said the growing spread of misinformation and sensationalism in the age of social media poses a major challenge to responsible journalism, while asserting that Meghalaya continues to enjoy a free and independent press environment.){kind=link}