- Veteran writer Yashwant Mehta leads 80th Independence Day celebrations at GJU office in Ahmedabad
- ‘Bhisma Pita of Journalists’ underlines the enduring responsibility of journalists to protect freedom of the press
- GJU president vows to intensify the Union’s fight for the welfare, dignity and rights of the media fraternity
- Office-bearers and members pay tribute to the architects of GJU while reaffirming commitment to journalism and democracy
NE NEWS SERVICE
AHMEDABAD, AUG 19
As the Tricolour soared high, carrying the aspirations of a free nation, the Gujarat Journalists Union (GJU) marked the 80th Independence Day in Ahmedabad with a spirited reaffirmation of the twin pillars of democracy—patriotism and freedom of the press.
The celebrations at the GJU office were led by veteran writer Yashwant Mehta, revered across the fraternity as the ‘Bhisma Pita of Journalists’, whose presence lent the occasion a deep sense of history, sacrifice and responsibility.
Mehta spoke at length on the significance of Independence Day and recalled the contribution of the architects who built and strengthened the Gujarat Journalists Union. He reiterated the imperative of preserving press freedom, exhorting journalists to remain steadfast in defending the fundamental values that give meaning to a democratic society.
His message struck a patriotic chord among the gathering, particularly at a time when the role of an independent and fearless media assumes renewed importance.
‘Protect press freedom with courage’
Mehta emphasised that Independence Day should not merely be an occasion for hoisting the national flag, but also a moment for journalists to introspect on their responsibility towards the Constitution, democracy and society.
He called upon members of the fraternity to strive relentlessly to safeguard freedom of the press, describing it as an essential responsibility of every journalist committed to truth and public interest.
The gathering also became an occasion to remember the pioneers and architects whose efforts helped establish and nurture the GJU and its commitment to the welfare of journalists.
GJU reaffirms welfare commitment
On the momentous occasion, GJU president BR Prajapati vowed to fight for the welfare of journalists with renewed vigour, reaffirming the Union’s commitment to stand by members of the media fraternity in their professional and personal struggles.
The pledge added a contemporary dimension to the Independence Day celebrations, linking the larger ideals of freedom with the everyday rights, dignity and welfare of journalists.
GJU Secretary Natwarlal Bhatt and CEO Vijay Mehta also addressed the gathering, sharing their thoughts on the responsibilities of the Union and the journalism fraternity. Bhatt’s address, delivered in his characteristic and inimitable style, added warmth and energy to the proceedings.
Veterans and Young Voices Together
The celebrations brought together senior office-bearers and members of the Union, reflecting the continuity of a journalistic legacy passed from one generation to another.
GJU Vice President Doctor, Joint Secretaries Vinay Pandya and R Manickavasagam, Treasurer Nilesh Vora, Executive Members Anil Verma, Ramanlal Prajapati and Himanshu Parmar, and Office Secretary Jagdish Meva, besides a large number of GJU members, attended the function.
Tricolour Inspires Fresh Resolve
The Independence Day celebration ultimately became more than a ceremonial gathering. It was a reaffirmation that the freedom won through the sacrifices of countless patriots carries with it an equally enduring responsibility—to protect democratic institutions, uphold truth and ensure that the voice of journalism remains free, fearless and committed to public interest.
With the Tricolour as the unifying symbol, the GJU office-bearers and members pledged to carry forward both the national spirit of Independence and the unfinished mission of securing a stronger, more dignified future for the journalism fraternity.
