Madras Union of Journalists observes day's fast for journalists' needs

Chennai: Members of Madras Union of Journalists on Saturday observed a one-day fast demanding Press Academy and better housing facilities for journalists. The fast led by MUJ general secretary Mohan also adopted 12 resolutions including safe working conditions for the journalists in the state.

The other demands by the scribes included new stringent act similar to the ones amended in Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra to ensure the safety of working journalists. A special committee comprising police, information department and journalists was sought to address the safety aspects of reporters. Increase in relief from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh for those who die on duty and also construction of subsidized houses were other demands discussed in the meeting.

They wanted an increase in the state housing allotment from 3 to 10 per cent and amendments in working journalist Act to include professionals from news websites and television channels as working journalists.