New Delhi, 21 March/ The National Commission for Women (NCW) organised a two-day National Media Conference at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, which began on 20 March and concluded on the evening of 21 March. The conference highlighted the importance of ethical, responsible, and gender-sensitive reporting on issues related to women.

Prominent journalists, reporters, and editors from print media across the country participated in the event. Addressing the gathering, NCW Chairperson Vijay Rahatkar, along with eminent legal experts and senior journalists, stressed that news reports concerning women must fully respect their dignity, honour, and right to privacy. They particularly urged media professionals to avoid sensationalism, irresponsible reporting, and revealing the identities of victims.

The main objective of the conference was to provide a common platform for journalists from across India to hold serious discussions on improving standards of reporting on women and gender justice. The key role of media in shaping public opinion, raising social awareness, and protecting constitutional values in a democracy was also underscored.

Various sessions, interactive dialogues, and experience-sharing segments were held, during which journalists openly discussed professional challenges, responsibilities, and possibilities for improvement. Senior and veteran journalists, including some with more than fifty years of experience in the field, shared their insights and provided guidance to young journalists.

Several participating journalists, while speaking to Voice of Ladakh, described the initiative as highly timely and beneficial. They said the platform not only gave them an opportunity to interact with peers from different parts of the country and share experiences, but also provided practical guidance on gender-sensitive reporting.

NCW officials reiterated that accurate, balanced, and sensitive reporting on women’s issues not only promotes public awareness but also plays a vital role in ensuring justice, equality, and protection of women’s rights in society. Participants termed the conference a positive, constructive, and effective step forward and strongly emphasised the need for continuation of such programmes.