M. Venkaiah Naidu cautioned the media against compromising the standards of ethical and independent journalism and urged the Fourth Estate to remain a symbol of objectivity, integrity, and responsible public discourse.
The Vice President made these remarks while addressing the centenary celebrations of veteran editor and writer Gora Sastri in Hyderabad.
Paying tribute to the noted journalist, Naidu highlighted Gora Sastri’s fearless and independent style of journalism and recalled his powerful editorials and commitment to journalistic integrity. He expressed concern over the growing trend of mixing news with opinions, stating that such practices blur facts and make it difficult for readers to distinguish between objective reporting and commentary.
The Vice President said that journalism must maintain dispassionate discourse even amid differences of opinion and emphasised that journalists should leave final judgments to readers rather than imposing their own conclusions.
Naidu remarked that contemporary media — including electronic, print, and digital platforms — should look up to stalwarts like Gora Sastri, who represented a balance of commitment, forthrightness, tradition, and modernity. He also referred to Narla Venkateswara Rao as another towering figure who upheld the highest standards of journalism in Telugu media.
Recalling his interactions with Gora Sastri, the Vice President described him as an editor deeply rooted in nationalism, known for his wit, humour, literary scholarship, and unwavering commitment to independent journalism.
Naidu also stressed that journalism courses should include lessons on the lives and contributions of great journalists to inspire future media professionals.
During the event, the Vice President released the book Vinayakudi Veena, a compilation of articles written by Gora Sastri.
The Vice President recounted several examples demonstrating Gora Sastri’s independent editorial approach. He mentioned that Sastri, after moving to Hyderabad in the late 1950s, served as editor of Andhra Bhoomi and also wrote editorials for Deccan Chronicle.
