Telangana Media Academy chairman K. Sreenivas Reddy, The Caravan magazine executive editor Hartosh Singh Bal, former Supreme Court judge B. Sudarshan Reddy and Press Club of India moderator and president Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty at the Federation of Press Clubs’ national conclave in Hyderabad on Sunday.
| Photo Credit: NAGARA GOPAL

The Federation of Press Clubs has resolved to facilitate legal aid for journalists facing persecution by the State, corporate interests and other non-State entities while pursuing legitimate journalism.

The federation also plans to offer reporting fellowships to journalists working on important but underfunded subjects and intervene legally against legislation that adversely affects press freedom and freedom of expression.

These decisions form part of the Hyderabad Declaration adopted at the conclusion of a two-day National Media Conclave organised by the Press Club Hyderabad here on Sunday.

The federation resolved to coordinate with press clubs across the country to advance journalism and create a common platform for collective action. It stressed the need to strengthen press freedom and ensure the unhindered practice of journalism as guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.

The safety and security of journalists and other mediapersons, including their physical, mental and employment-related concerns, have been identified as key priorities. The federation proposed timely assistance to journalists, photojournalists and other media professionals facing distress, particularly during medical emergencies and financial hardship.

The federation proposes to develop curricula for media literacy courses and collaborate with reputed State and non-State organisations to offer them to students at appropriate educational levels. It also resolved to promote ethical journalism and professional standards and work with national and international organisations involved in protecting press freedom and journalists’ rights.

Published – August 23, 2026 08:51 pm IST