Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Tuesday that the government could not allow the worsening relationship between the lawyers and mediapersons which will adversely affect the image of the state. In a statement released after a meeting with the editors of electronic and print media, he said the relations between the media and advocates had worsened to the extent of attracting national and international attention and it could adversely affect Kerala’s reputation.
To be known across the globe as a state that breached freedom of expression or freedom to know was something which would not bring pride to the Malayalis. Mr Vijayan said that a state which provided an ideal atmosphere to function in a free manner, judiciously and without fear, could not be portrayed in a wrong manner. This should be understood by all people concerned. Certain incidents had taken place earlier and there were emotional reactions from either side. However, it was not in anybody’s interest to continue to react in the same manner.
The public would not accept such an attitude and the government cannot agree to such a stand, he said. Mediapersons could not be prevented from entering court premises to discharge their official duties. “We cannot approve of such obstructions. The advocates should ponder whether what they were doing is right. They should refrain from such actions. Nothing which prevents independent, fearless work and freedom of press can be permitted in the state,” he added.
Chief Justice Mohan Shantanagoudar has said that the issues between lawyers and advocates had been resolved amicably. This was conveyed to AG C.P. Sudhakara Prasad who held discussions with the chief justice, senior lawyers and advocates association. He conveyed the government’s stand that all sections should cooperate and compromise on issues to reach an amicable settlement.
The people need to know many of the proceedings that take place in courts. It is the duty of journalists to inform the public about such matters. A situation which leads to interruption in court reporting indefinitely is not healthy. Instead of dissecting the issue over and over again and postponing a solution indefinitely, the government had created an ideal atmosphere for reaching an agreement. All sections should cooperate with government’s stand, Mr Vijayan said.
